We recommend a 15-20 minute soak every day as part of your health and wellness routine. But did you know that beyond enjoying the soothing waters of your hot tub from AquaRest Spas, there are some simple self-improvement actions that you can take during your soak?

1. Meditate or self-reflect

Feeling stressed? Take this opportunity to enjoy quiet time and focus on your breathing to help calm your mind. If you’re familiar with meditation, this may come easy for you. If you’re new to the world of quieting your mind, you can find plenty of guided meditation options online.

This time to soak is also a perfect opportunity to reflect or even brainstorm. Have you ever experienced writers block? Try a relaxing soak to ease your mind and unblock your creative side. You may find that your spa can help you go from “aaah” to “AHA!”

2. Learn Something New

Looking for some edu-tainment while you soak? Podcasts are a great way to learn something new in short, easy-to-digest episodes. Here’s a list of some popular podcasts that will keep you entertained while stretching your brain — covering everything from astrology to Tolkien!

TED Talks are also great for a short and educational listen while you soak. If you want to watch a TED Talk or an educational video on your tablet, you can put it in a waterproof case and bring it into the spa with you. You can also search online for tablet stands so that you can place your tablet near your spa while you soak.

3. Call a Friend or Relative

Today it’s so easy to rely on texts and occasional Facebook conversations to catch up with people in our lives. While you’re relaxing in your spa, you can use the time as an opportunity to give a loved one a call. A 10 or 15 conversation is all it takes to let an aunt know you are thinking about her or to see how a cousin’s new job is going. (We recommend using a waterproof phone case if you’ll be bringing your phone near your spa).

Small steps toward self-improvement are easy to take when you’ve already set the time aside for yourself. While these actions are enjoyable while you take part in them, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised at how meditation, education, and reconnection can refresh your mind and spirit!