Whether it’s arthritis, joint or back pain, restless leg syndrome, muscle injuries or fibromyalgia, hot tubs are a proven form of chronic pain relief. The heat of the water increases blood flow and relaxes the body, while the massaging action of the jets and the water’s buoyancy loosen muscle tension and soothe sore joints. The New England Journal of Medicine (08-16-1999) found that, after just 10 days, patients with Type 2 Diabetes who used hot tubs 30 minutes a day/6 days per week required reduced doses of insulin, lost weight, slept better and showed distinct decreases in plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin. Hot tubs can be a great fix for those suffering from insomnia, helping your body to wind down before bed and get the natural sleep you need. Even if you don’t suffer from chronic sleep problems, the Better Sleep Council recommends establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, such as soaking in hot water to help maintain a healthy sleep cycle. According to the Council’s findings, warm water releases muscle tension and increases blood flow, both of which contribute to a relaxed and deeper, more comfortable sleep. Whether it’s a new exercise routine or an unusually active day on your feet, most of us know the “day after” feeling of sore, overworked muscles that make it hurt to move, period. The water pressure from hot tub jets relieves muscle tightness and soreness by removing lactic acid, opening up the blood vessels and promoting the flow of endorphins. LPGA Sports Medicine Director Caroline Nichols and former President of the American Orthopedic Society of Sports Medicine Dr. James Andrews recommend hydrotherapeutic activity for athletes at every level. Nichols says that hot tubs especially help with recovery since jets focus on overused muscle and joint regions, while Andrews supports hydrotherapy as a good tool for improved circulation, sensory impulses and stiff joints. Whether you’re looking to alleviate stress, feel healthier or simply spend more time with your loved ones, you’d be amazed at how as little as 10 minutes in a hot tub can help you relax and put everything in perspective. There are hot tubs for every type of user, regardless of whether it’s just you or it’s the entire gang piling in, looking for some much-needed relief after a long day.

Firepit area in shady garden with river rock stream paving. Raspberry painted Wave Hill Kit chairs. Photo Leah Roberts
Mid-sized eclectic backyard stone patio photo in DC Metro with a fire pit

Steve Carruthers
This is an example of a mid-sized eclectic full sun backyard stone outdoor basketball/tennis/multi-game court in Portland.

TKM evened out the width and height of these steps and created the landing, (see before photo in "MAKEOVER Stone Patio & Walls, Outdoor Fireplace & Brick Entry" Project) upgrading the safety and curb appeal of our grateful client's home.

Mike Woods
Photo of a contemporary landscaping in Denver.

Grading, walls and flagstone patio and plants installed by my homeowner client. Plants were hand selected and delivered by my plant broker. The edibles garden is on the left side. Photo Carol Lindsay, Landscape Design in a Day

Stone Pathway and raised garden boxes in Draper, Utah. Utah Landscaper, TimberRidge Landscaping. http://timberridgeutah.com/

Inspiration for a southwestern pool remodel in Austin

The base of an unruly hillside is transformed into a destination spot with this stunning gazebo covered random flagstone patio inset with a stone conversation circle. Woodinville, WA.

bluestone patio & fire pit area

Stamped concrete patio with a retaining wall with a wood burning firepit.
Inspiration for a large tropical backyard stamped concrete patio remodel

Elegant patio photo in Houston

Walkways are a means of getting people from one area to another. They can be as simple as a few stones or as a design feature of the whole garden.
Photo of a traditional shade side yard stone formal garden in St Louis for summer.

Arizona Flagstone laid over concrete.
Photo of a mid-sized traditional partial sun front yard stone garden path in Sacramento.

Example of an island style custom-shaped pool design in Los Angeles

Retaining walls can serve many purposes! Personal Touch incorporated siloam steps into this homeowner's short stone retaining wall for better backyard access! Seasonal pansies and complementary evergreens add aesthetic appeal to this stone wall and step duo!

Photo of a contemporary landscaping in Milwaukee.