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What to Expect During a First Visit to a Hot Springs
What to Expect During a First Visit to a Hot Springs
What to Expect During a First Visit to a Hot Springs
Your first trip to a hot springs facility is exciting. You probably have a general idea of what to expect: a soothing soak in a uniquely relaxing environment, for starters. Knowing a bit more about what your experience will entail can help you prepare and feel nothing but enthusiasm leading up to your first visit.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your trip to WorldSprings.
Dress for a Dip: What to Wear to Hot Springs
Since you’ll be plunging in some of the world’s greatest mineral waters spread across 46 different springs, you’ll need proper swim attire to enjoy our pools to their fullest. At WorldSprings, proper swimwear is a requirement, so this is a first and foremost step you won’t want to skip. If you prefer not to wear your bathing suit to the facility, just pack it with you and swap outfits in one of our private changing areas.
If young children will be joining you in our family-friendly soaking waters, plan to dress them in bathing suits, too, and be sure any little ones who aren’t toilet-trained have a swim diaper on as well. For footwear, we recommend shoes that will allow you to walk from one spring to another easily and safely: think go-to poolside options like flip flops, sandals, or water shoes.
Pack Light: What to Bring to Hot Springs
You won’t need to bring much to enjoy your hot springs experience. In fact, since it’s all about immersive relaxation, we advise leaving everything you can in your own locker, which is RFID bracelet-powered for your protection and peace of mind. (Feel free to have your phone poolside if you’d like, though.) You’ll receive a large plush towel for your comfort during your visit, and robes are also available for rent or purchase at check-in.
Hungry or thirsty? Our facilities offer a full menu of fresh, seasonal food and beverages with plenty of seating to choose from. Feel free to bring bottles if your baby will be joining you in the family-friendly locations; otherwise, leave any outside food or beverages behind.
Here are a few things you will want to pack:
- A change of clothes
- Sandals (if you’re not wearing them to our facility)
- Sunglasses
- SPF
- Your ID and payment method
A swimsuit bag will be provided for you, so feel free to leave your wet bag at home. We recommend skipping jewelry, too, since some minerals could cause tarnishing.
A World of Choices: What To Do in Hot Springs Facilities
How you structure your visit to a hot springs facility is entirely up to you. With more than 40 pools to choose from, including both hot springs and cold plunges, as well as lounge chairs, a bar and café, saunas, and cabanas, there are plenty of ways to unwind.
We ask that every guest rinses off in our outdoor showers before soaking (you can shower off between soaks, too). Then, take your pick from the dozens of pools in our adult access area, welcome to guests ages 18 and up. Here, you’ll find the Dead Sea Pool, along with the European, Asiatic, and Americas regions. Interspersed throughout our hot mineral springs are several cold plunges, so take your time experimenting with what feels best as you enjoy your visit. These chilled waters are an integral component of The Mineral Method, and help support full-body wellness and recovery.
If you’d like to cool off between hot soaks or you’re visiting with children, head over to the South Pacific Region, featuring our Globe Pool where all ages are welcome. Or, take a break in one of our private cabanas, which can be booked for up to six guests. You’re also welcome to sit poolside in our lounge chairs, or enjoy one of our Finnish saunas located across the property.
Be sure to stay hydrated with plain or lemon-infused water and ice, available at our hydration stations. Beverages can be enjoyed poolside, while there’s plenty of seating for dining nearby.
A One-of-a-Kind Oasis: What Our Springs Look & Feel Like
From 55-degree cold plunges to up to 104-degree soaking pools, we offer a wide range of experiences across our mineral springs. Inspired by world-famous waters located all across the globe, these pools have unique concentrations of minerals and distinct wellness possibilities. The hypersaline waters of our Dead Sea pool may help to alleviate joint pain, for instance, while the mineral-rich waters of Iceland and Italy can help calm your nervous system. We invite you to experience the soothing warmth of our mineral waters and refreshing chill of our cold plunges to witness their transformative effects firsthand.
Ready to take the plunge? Unlock a world of relaxation in our globally-inspired waters by booking your first mineral springs experience here.
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What Is Hydrotherapy?
on Apr 23, 2025 | 6 minutes
What Is Hydrotherapy? Water is used for various health purposes, providing essential benefits to your body inside and out. You know that staying hydrated is good for you, but did you also know that water serves therapeutic purposes? Hydrotherapy is a rising trend among wellness enthusiasts, and you’ve probably seen everyone, from fitness influencers to your coworkers, hyping the unbeatable advantages of this serene healing experience. You might be surprised to learn that it’s far from a new practice. Medical practitioners have used water to treat ailments and injuries since the beginning of written history. However, only in the past few decades have researchers and medical experts started uncovering the evidence-based benefits of hydrotherapy treatment (1). Whether you soak in our hot spring or the cold plunge, WorldSprings mineral waters provide an elevated, restorative spa experience. So, what is hydrotherapy, and what can it do for you? This guide uncovers how hydrotherapy can help contribute to your overall well-being. What Is Hydrotherapy? Hydrotherapy, water therapy, and aquatic therapy all refer to using water or pools for therapeutic purposes, addressing pain, injuries, health conditions, or stress. Hydrotherapy is a broad category and may involve hot or cold temperatures, pressurized jets or natural pools, or special locations or equipment. Even a warm bath can be considered hydrotherapy! In specialized settings, hydrotherapy treatments are highly controlled to provide specific advantages. The most common uses for hydrotherapy involve relieving uncomfortable symptoms, such as: Pain Swelling Stiffness Muscle tension For most people, it’s a relaxing, low-risk way to soothe discomfort, whether it’s acute or chronic. The Benefits of Hydrotherapy Hydrotherapy treatment offers many potential benefits, depending on the temperature and mineral water content. Here are a few ways unwinding with a relaxing soak can contribute to your well-being: 1. Easing Pain Pain relief and pain management are common uses for hydrotherapy, especially when sore or tense muscles and joints cause the discomfort. The buoyancy of the water supports the body, reduces the effects of gravity, and improves blood flow, which can help relax the muscles and relieve joint pain (2). 2. Improving Mental Health Taking a soak in a mineral hot spring is a great way to relax your body and mind. As the waters ease pressure on tense areas, it also has a calming effect. Warm water and rhythmic movements have the ability to soothe nerves, improve mood, and help with anxiety and depression (3). 3. Boosting Immunity Cold weather weakens your immune system, while the soothing heat of a hot spring has the opposite effect. Hot springs can provide an immunity boost through nutrient-rich water and soothing warmth that open up your blood vessels and improve circulation, delivering oxygen and other nutrients throughout the body (2). 4. Promoting Recovery Many athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and runners frequent hot springs, cold plunges, and saunas post-workout, and for good reason. Both ends of the temperature spectrum are excellent for muscle recovery — warmth can help decrease inflammation and muscle pain, while cold water slows blood flow to ease soreness and swelling (2), helping reduce the risk of future discomfort and injuries. Some may even benefit from alternating between hot and cold pools. 5. Enhancing Sleep If you’re not getting enough quality sleep at night or have trouble falling asleep in the first place, hydrotherapy might improve your chances of better rest. A warm, soothing soak encourages relaxation and helps reduce pain and discomfort, making it easier to drift to sleep at night. 6. Supporting Skin Health The skin needs a variety of minerals to stay healthy, and soaking in mineral water is an excellent way to absorb nutrients while boosting hydration and reducing inflammation. Each mineral type provides unique benefits. For example, the sodium in saltwater pools like our Dead Sea pool can open your pores, gently exfoliate dead skin cells, and dry out the bacteria that cause inflammation and acne (4). Different Types of Hydrotherapy at WorldSprings The best form of hydrotherapy for you will depend on your symptoms and goals. At WorldSprings, finding the right pool to suit your needs is easy. Our globally inspired regions feature pools of varying temperatures and mineral content, each with unique benefits. From mineral hot springs to cold plunges and freshwater pools, there’s something for everyone. If you want an option that aids muscle recovery, soothes the nerves, or balances electrolytes, visit the magnesium-rich pools in our Australia & Bali, Japan & Korea, Dead Sea, and Guatemala & Mexico regions. Learn more about our waters and experience the rejuvenating properties of our pools at WorldSprings. 1. (May 23, 2022). Hydrotherapy. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23137-hydrotherapy 2. Andonian, N. (November 23, 2023). The Surprising Benefits of Hydrotherapy. GoodRx. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from https://www.goodrx.com/well-being/alternative-treatments/hydrotherapy-types-treatments-benefit 3. Rapaport, L. (October 10, 2024). What Is Hydrotherapy: Benefits, Risks, and Techniques. Everyday Health. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from https://www.everydayhealth.com/pain-management/hydrotherapy/. 4. Tabin, E. (September 18, 2023). Does Salt Water Help Acne? We Ask Dermatologists. InStyle. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from https://www.instyle.com/does-salt-water-help-acne-7966090
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on Apr 17, 2025 | 4 minutes
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Should you like to do more to honor them, you may sign up to volunteer with the Travis Manion Foundation by laying handcrafted tokens at this sacred site (2). The Arts District & Crow Museum of Asian Art With over 118 acres, Dallas boasts the largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation3. After admiring the award-winning architecture or perusing the many galleries, parks, and theaters, you can honor Asian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month by exploring the Crow Museum of Asian Art. Upcoming exhibitions include The Shogun’s World, Japanese Maps from the MacLean Collection, Anila Quayyum Agha: Let One Bird Sing, and Cecilia Chiang: Don’t Tell Me What To Do (3). Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden Late spring at the beautiful White Rock Lake is the perfect time to visit the gardens before the heat of summer settles in. 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Omar Courtz at House of Blues Dallas On May 23, you can dance the night away at the legendary House of Blues Dallas with Latin hip-hop sensation Omar Courtz, who touts influences as diverse as old-school reggaeton and Rihanna on his debut album, Primera Musa (8). The Wrecks at The Echo Lounge & Music Hall If alt-rock is more your vibe, check out Los Angeles band The Wrecks on May 25. The Echo Lounge & Music Hall in the Design District is a great destination for music-loving foodies. The eclectic menu includes mouthwatering carne asada street tacos and veggie options (9). WorldSprings Amid the many festive and bustling Memorial Day activities, thinking about your well-being and quality time with friends and family is important. If you’re looking for a new way to reconnect and recharge without distractions and improve your social wellness, WorldSprings offers a chance to do just that in a tranquil environment like nothing else you’ve seen in Dallas. Each of the four globally-inspired regions has mineral soak springs that vary in temperature and mineral content. You can travel from Australia to Iceland, get cozy and chat by a fire, take a steam, or enjoy a signature mineral massage to melt away any lingering stress. With both family-friendly and adult-only spaces, the tranquil atmosphere has everything you and your loved ones need to counter the tension of modern life. 1. Ten best arts districts in the US for a creative escape. USA Today. Retrieved March 24, 2025, from https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-arts-district/ 2. The Honor Project: Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery 2025. The Travis Manion Project. Retrieved March 24, 2025, from https://www.travismanion.org/index.php/events/the-honor-project/dallas-fort-worth-national-cemetery-2025/ 3. What to do in Dallas in May. Visit Dallas. Retrieved March 24, 2025, from https://www.visitdallas.com/blog/what-to-do-may/ 4. Things to do in Dallas/Unique to Dallas. Visit Dallas. Retrieved March 24, 2025, from https://www.visitdallas.com/things-to-do/outdoors/parks-gardens/dallas-arboretum/ 5. Things to do in Dallas/Unique to Dallas. Visit Dallas. Retrieved March 24, 2025, from https://www.visitdallas.com/things-to-do/arts/museums/perot-museum-of-nature-science/ 6. Things to do in Dallas/Unique to Dallas. Visit Dallas. Retrieved March 24, 2025, from https://www.visitdallas.com/things-to-do/attractions/reunion-tower/ 7. Dallas Comedy Club Presents: Joey Avery. Visit Dallas. Retrieved March 24, 2025, from https://www.visitdallas.com/events/dallas-comedy-club-presents-joey-avery/ 8. Events/Omar Courtz. Visit Dallas. Retrieved March 24, 2025, from https://www.visitdallas.com/events/omar-courtz/ 9. The Wrecks - Inside:Out Tour. Visit Dallas. Retrieved March 24, 2025, from https://www.visitdallas.com/events/the-wrecks-inside-outside-tour/
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The Benefits of Cold Plunges
on Apr 11, 2025 | 3 minutes
The Benefits of Cold Plunges There’s something comforting about relaxing in a warm bath or a sauna. That feeling stays with you even when you step out of the heat. So, why would you then plunge into a pool of ice-cold water — especially after you spent all that time letting heat release the tension in your muscles? Well, there are numerous reasons to take an icy plunge. Keep reading for a comprehensive guide on cold plunge benefits and why the burr-enducing dip is so great for your body and mind. First Things First: What is a Cold Plunge? A cold plunge is a quick dip into cold water, typically between 50-59°F (10-15°C). You might have heard about celebrities and professional athletes soaking in ice baths for up to 15 minutes to help with muscle recovery. However, most people only need to submerge themselves in frigid water for about 30 seconds, and up to two minutes, to experience the benefits (1). Cold plunges aren’t just some newfangled influencer trend. It’s been around for centuries; even ancient Romans shocked their bodies with icy water for health. Once you experience the cold plunge benefits, you might just find yourself craving that chill. Beyond the Adrenaline Rush If you didn't sleep well, plunging into icy water kicks up your adrenaline and jolts you awake. Think of it as a reset button for your body and mind, an invigorating wake-up call that lingers. The benefits of cold plunges, however, go well beyond snapping you out of a 3 p.m. slump. Less Stress and a Better Mood While you might think that subjecting yourself to cold water might put you in a bad mood, the opposite is true: A cold plunge can make you feel happier and less stressed. According to researchers at Stanford, the mood-enhancing effect happens because a blast of cold water triggers several nervous system responses that help you adapt and respond to the stress (2). First, your brain releases a flood of endorphins (your brain’s happy chemicals) to counteract the discomfort of the cold water. At the same time, cold water immersion triggers your sympathetic nervous system and the release of noradrenaline, which helps you stay focused and alert. The adrenaline boost also increases blood flow to your brain, creating a feeling of euphoria. The combination of adrenaline and endorphins makes the experience more enjoyable and supports a better overall mood and less stress. Faster Recovery After Tough Workouts There’s a reason elite athletes use cold plunges to help them recover after time on the field, track, or court — cold water immersion can help muscles heal faster. Even if you aren’t a professional athlete, you can experience the benefits of a cold plunge after a challenging yoga class or session with weights. Exercise can leave your muscles inflamed and full of microscopic tears. Immersing yourself in a tub of cold water constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling, so you have less delayed-onset muscle soreness and tissue damage (3). Stronger Immune System Some evidence suggests that a stronger immune system is on the list of cold plunge benefits. Research indicates that cold plunges stimulate white blood cell production while helping your body fight infections more effectively. One Dutch study found that regular cold showers resulted in 29% fewer sick days (4). Anecdotally, people who practice cold immersion regularly often report fewer colds and faster recovery from illnesses. How to Take the Plunge (without Chickening Out) For many people, a cold plunge is the ideal accompaniment to a soak in hot springs. However, it’s important to note that some people, such as those with cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure, should avoid cold plunges. A plunge can raise the heart rate, causing the heart to work harder (5). WorldSprings offers the perfect opportunity to experience a cold plunge. The key to getting the most from the experience and enjoying it is following simple tips: Start with Contrast Therapy. WorldSprings is the perfect place to try cold plunging because it offers a hot-to-cold experience. The warmth of the hot springs primes your body, making the cold slightly more tolerable. Breathe Deeply. Take slow, deep breaths before entering the cold water. Once you step in, resist the urge to hold your breath or hyperventilate. Focus on steady breathing. Try to Stay for 30 Seconds. Even a quick, 30-second plunge can deliver benefits. As you get more comfortable and your body adapts, add a few more seconds to the time. Warm Up Gradually. After exiting the pool, let your body adjust and enjoy the lingering effects of the plunge. Take the Plunge at WorldSprings If you’re visiting WorldSprings and wondering, “What is a cold plunge?” try adding one to your experience. It’s an experience that leaves you feeling alive, refreshed, and invigorated. So step in, take a deep breath, and embrace the chill. 1. Jagim, A. (2024). Can taking a cold plunge after your workout be beneficial? Mayo Clinic. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/cold-plunge-after-workouts 2. Shetty, M. (2024). Jumping into the ice bath trend! mental health benefits of cold water immersion. Stanford Lifestyle Medicine. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://longevity.stanford.edu/lifestyle/2024/05/22/jumping-into-the-ice-bath-trend-mental-health-benefits-of-cold-water-immersion/ 3. Cain, T., Brinsley, J., et al. (2025). Impact of cold-water immersion compared with passive recovery following a single bout of strenuous exercise on athletic performance in physically active participants: a systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-regression. Sports Medicine. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9213381/ 4. Parkin, N. (2024). The health benefits of a cold plunge. Henry Ford Health. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://www.henryford.com/blog/2024/11/the-health-benefits-of-a-cold-plunge 5. Intrabartola, L. (2024). What are the benefits of a cold plunge? Rutgers Today. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://www.rutgers.edu/news/what-are-benefits-cold-plunge-trend
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