There is seldom anything that can compare to the joys of a hot soak. The bubbling water, and warmth enveloping your body—just thinking about it is enough to produce a sigh! What you may not know is that humans have been indulging in the pleasures of hydrotherapy for a very long time. It traces back to ancient cultures from Egypt to China.

As it turns out, these societies may have been on to something! Modern-day science shows that there are a multitude of health benefits from a dip in your hot tub.

We present to you four ways your hot tub can improve your health.

1. It may promote better sleep

Anyone who owns a hot tub is likely to rave about its ability to soothe a busy mind. But research has indicated that a soak in your tub may actually promote more restful sleep. The reason for this? Hot water raises your core temperature. Once out of the hot tub, your core temperature slowly decreases, signally to the brain that it’s time to rest. Meaning, your hot tub might be able to help you fall asleep and stay asleep!

2. Lower glucose levels

Are you someone who is conscious of your blood sugar levels? Well, we’ve got some news for you. Two studies, one published in the New England Journal of Medicine and the other from Colorado University, looked into the effects of hot tub soaks on those affected by type 2 diabetes. Both found that regular dips can lower glucose levels in the body. Pretty neat, right?

3. Your hot tub can lead to better cardiovascular function and circulation

Heat is a wonderful thing! When exposed to heat, the body’s blood vessels widen, allowing the flow of nutrient and oxygen-rich blood to move around the body with ease! For this reason, research has linked soaking in hot water as helping to reduce blood pressure.

4. Reduce inflammation

Building off of the last fun fact, those widened blood vessels can help get that oxygen-rich blood to areas of the body that need it most post-workout! During an intense workout, the muscles produce lactic acid, which can build up and produce painfully sore muscles. Oxygen is key! The liver uses oxygen to help break down lactic acid in the liver. The more oxygen in your body, the less recovery time! Moreover, the warm water can help reduce swelling and its buoyancy eases the pressure on those aching joints.

The next time you’re about to hop into your hot tub, rest assured that you’re doing something good for your mind and your body!