(ARA) – Just 19 minutes out of the 1,440 minutes in a day — that’s how much time the average American spends relaxing or thinking, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Is 19 minutes of relaxing “me time” really enough? Where can people go within their home to escape the stress that surrounds them? Personal spaces are becoming increasingly scarce with extended families and friends living together under one roof. As a result, some people find it more difficult than ever to create a tranquil environment where they can “get away from it all” and perhaps increase their essential “me” time.

“Relaxation is a significant antidote to stress and potential health problems. Although ongoing emotional upset around issues in one’s life may not be the single root cause of an illness, there is now abundant evidence to prove that unresolved feelings and pressure can be a major contributor to bodily distress and most health-related issues,” notes Dr. Harriet Haberman, practicing psychotherapist with over 30 years experience and author of Emotional Wisdom: A Compassionate Guide to the Messages Hidden in Your Feelings.  ”Personal and global economic events can easily create havoc with our health. This troubling reality emphasizes the importance of finding a safe place to allow oneself to feel nurtured,” observes Haberman.

Quiet relaxation zones in backyards and bathrooms built around a water theme continue to provide a highly desired residential sanctuary. “Stressed out homeowners seek us out,” says Anthony Pasquarelli of bath and backyard products company Jacuzzi Brands. “Americans are looking for ideas on how to create an escape from the chaos and pressure around them. They want a way to enjoy peace, comfort and solitude and warm water hydrotherapy is the centuries-old solution they desire.”

According to Pasquarelli, homeowners are choosing jetted whirlpool bath tubs or air baths because of the transformative experience they deliver. Bathrooms are viewed as one of the last truly private spaces in the home and the one destination that people can count on to get away.

The backyard can be a great place to have a home spa retreat as well. Zen gardens and fountains are popular as are outdoor hot tubs that can be used all year long, even during cold months. Privacy is enhanced with creative landscaping for a discreet hot tub experience.

Having a backyard hot tub provides the opportunity to enjoy hydrotherapy in a controlled and convenient environment. Homeowners gain access to a private space where they can relax and be away from the rest of world. Unlike facilities at hotels or gyms, body-conscious individuals don’t have to worry about who will see them.

“We have noticed a movement toward an even greater emphasis on seclusion,” says William Smelley of Sundance Spas. “New hot tub owners are purchasing matching privacy screens or planning more intimate spaces for their hot tub to obscure views from neighbors and nearby roads. In doing so, they create a personalized place where they can unwind. Modesty is a timeless value that we’ve seen consistently over the past 30 years that we’ve been in business.”

Besides providing some private relaxation time, hot tubs deliver many health benefits.  The heat from the hot tub improves circulation and speeds recovery in damaged tissue. The buoyancy of the water reduces pressure on joints and the spine. Finally, the massage elements relieve muscle tension and alleviate stress.

“It’s important to increase those 19 minutes of personal time no matter how busy your household is,” confirms Dr. Haberman.

Emotional Wisdom offers a variety of techniques to achieve healing and inner peace. It is available online at www.harriethabermanphd.com or through major online book sellers. For more information on the health and relaxation benefits of hydrotherapy, look for details on www.Jacuzzi.com or www.SundanceSpas.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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