The Rise of Home Wellness Retreats: Saunas, Hot Tubs & Cold Plunges
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Wellness Moves Into the Home
What once required a luxury spa membership is now moving into backyards and basements across the country. Saunas, hot tubs, and cold plunges—once reserved for professional athletes and high-end resorts—are becoming must-have home features.
According to the Global Wellness Institute the wellness economy reached $5.6 trillion in 2023, with home wellness upgrades listed among the fastest-growing categories. More homeowners are investing in these products not only for relaxation but also for their long-term health benefits.
Why the Shift Is Happening
Several factors are driving the growth of at-home wellness:
Health & Recovery Focus: From improving sleep to reducing stress, wellness routines are more mainstream than ever.
Post-Pandemic Lifestyle Changes: Many people still prefer at-home options over public gyms and spas.
Property Value Boost: Luxury features like hot tubs and saunas can increase resale value and make homes stand out.
Technology: Modern systems are easier to install, energy-efficient, and even WiFi-enabled for convenience.
Publications like Forbes Health and Architectural Digest have reported on the rising demand for in-home wellness spaces, noting the overlap between personal health, design, and real estate.
Saunas: Tradition Meets Modern Living
Saunas are among the oldest wellness practices, dating back thousands of years in Finland. Traditional wood-fired models remain popular, while modern electric and infrared versions appeal to homeowners looking for convenience and energy savings.
A study from Harvard Health suggests that regular sauna use may help improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and support muscle recovery. This blend of tradition and science explains their broad appeal today.
Hot Tubs: More Than Relaxation
Hot tubs are often seen as a place to unwind, but they also support hydrotherapy—a practice used for pain relief, improved circulation, and stress reduction. Modern hot tubs now include smart controls, high-powered jets, and saltwater systems, making them more therapeutic than ever before.
Jacuzzi reports that hydrotherapy is increasingly recommended for those with arthritis and sleep challenges, strengthening the hot tub’s reputation as a wellness tool rather than just a luxury.
Cold Plunges: The Newcomer with Impact
Cold immersion has exploded in popularity thanks to athletes, biohackers, and wellness influencers. Cold plunges are linked to reduced inflammation, improved circulation, and mental resilience.
The Cleveland Clinic highlights that short cold exposures can help recovery after workouts and even improve mood. As portable tubs and chiller systems become widely available, cold plunges are quickly moving from niche practice to household staple.
Looking Ahead
The future of home wellness is only growing. Steam showers, contrast therapy setups, and combination sauna-plunge systems are reshaping how people view relaxation at home. With health, convenience, and design all playing a role, the “home wellness retreat” is no longer just for the elite—it’s a mainstream movement.
Looking to transform your own home into a wellness retreat? Explore our collections of Saunas, Hot Tubs, and Cold Plunge Tubs to get started.
Sources
Global Wellness Institute – Global Wellness Economy Report 2023: 2017 Global Wellness Economy Monitor - Global Wellness Institute
Forbes Health – The Rise of At-Home Wellness Spaces: 8 Residential Wellness Design Trends To Watch For In 2024
Architectural Digest – How Home Design Is Embracing Wellness: 11 Wellness Room Designs for Every Space and Budget | Architectural Digest
Architectural Digest – How to Create a Home Spa for Your Space in 2025 | Architectural Digest
Architectural Digest – 4 Wellness Design Trends the Experts Say Are Here to Stay: 4 Wellness Design Trends the Experts Say Are Here to Stay | Architectural Digest