Most of us will suffer from time shortages until an extra day magically appears on our calendar. The word “busy” is a catchall for the crisscross of activities that fill our day. It has also become a favorite excuse that gets us out of parties, running errands, and almost any awkward obligation. Great opportunities for quality time with family are also pushed aside. Where can you harvest more quality time for what’s important to you? The answer may be in the warm water of a hot tub.
by Anne Kruse
“Where can you harvest more quality time for what’s important to you? The answer may be in the warm water of a hot tub.”
There’s some good news! Melissa Milkie, a sociologist at the University of Toronto, provides some insight. In her 2015 study she reports, “Building relationships, seizing quality moments of connection, not quantity is what emerging research is showing to be most important for both parent and child well-being.”
It appears we don’t need more time. Instead, we need to ramp up the quality of the time we have. Let’s explore how a hot tub creates the quality moments of connection you desire.
1. Go hands-free
Americans are spending 11+ hours a day using electronic media. Look no further than your hot tub for the perfect excuse your family needs to unplug from electronic devices. It’s a forgone conclusion that most electronic devices don’t do well underwater or in moisture-rich environments. And you thought nothing could break the bond a teenager has with a phone! It’s healthy for everyone to unplug on occasion so we can plug into new and meaningful experiences.
“It’s healthy for everyone to unplug on occasion so we can plug into new and meaningful experiences.”
2. Make a plan and set a date for a hot tub event
If you hear yourself say, “We should really do that,” take the next step. Do it! Pull out your calendar, pick a date that works for the family, and “ink” it. Most of us know that organized events have a much higher likelihood of happening. Everyone loves an impromptu gathering on occasion. But let the law of averages work in your family’s favor. Make a plan. Your family’s quality time deserves a solid place on your calendar.
“Your family’s quality time deserves a solid place on your calendar.”
3. Make your hot tub the focal point
Have you ever noticed the way people gather in the kitchen during parties? There’s no reason why your hot tub can’t be the focal point of your family gathering. Set up the event with this in mind. Coordinate the food and drinks near your hot tub. Feel free to guide family members outside for a new perspective. Outdoor heaters help create a year-round environment. Eat. Drink. And later, hot tub. Now that’s a perfect event.
4. Encourage the kids to try a new recipe
The goal is to create an engaging experience for the entire family. Set up an opportunity to expand your kids’ cooking skills – no matter their ages. Once you set your date tell them about your great idea. They might take some convincing. You’ll be there to help them each step of the way. That’s how you create those quality moments of connection. In case things don’t go as planned you can order pizza and sooth sore egos in the hot tub.
5. Extend your family
The more the merrier. Quality family time includes time spent with friends that you consider family. Invite people who enrich your life to share in a hot tub experience. That may require a 2 person hot tub, a 4-5 person hot tub, or a 7 person hot tub. No worries if it’s standing room only. A roomy hot tub deck ensures room for everyone.
6. Get into the hot tub
The 2015 study mentioned above says the best time to spend with family members is when you’re not stressed, sleep-deprived, or anxious. More good news. Hot tubs help alleviate stress, improve sleep and provide meditative relaxation. Your entire family will benefit from the time you spend in a hot tub. Buying a hot tub is an investment in the quality of you and your family’s health.
We are passionate hot tub enthusiasts and appreciate your interest in learning. Read more about the benefits of hot tub use in our resource library by clicking here. We are your source for reliable information.
Download a brochure by simply clicking here or the “Download a Brochure” tab in the toolbar. At Caldera Spas we take pride in helping you find ways to “Come to Life.” We know you’re worth it. Feel Good. Live Well.
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