Today is (no joke!) National Nude Day. The official origin of this day to celebrate being in the buff appears to hail from New Zealand. It’s rumored that, in the early 2000’s, rugby player Marc Ellis led the charge to streak in front of the country’s then Prim Minister Helen Clark. Nudists clung to the commemoration, and some still celebrate to this day. When this came across my radar, it made me smile. It caused me think back to the early days of Olympic when Alice, one of our co-founders, hit up a columnist for The Seattle Times to help her with her “research” of a very important topic connected to hot tubbing: “Nude or not Nude?” Actually, Alice had already done most of the work. She decided to pose this very question to a number of Olympic customers and find out whether hot tubbers deemed wearing a suit in the tub to be a necessity or an absurdity. She had well over 200 responses to her query. And, to her delight and surprise, some of those who answered her question did so with poetry! This is where John Hinterberger, who had a column published in Pacific Magazine in The Seattle Times, entered the picture. She reached out to ask him to judge the prose and pick a winner, and he agreed—in exchange for some chlorine for his own hot tub! The results of the poll? Only thirteen of the 200+ respondents said they wore a suit in the tub—less than 6%! I wonder if the results would be any different today. As for the winning poem selected by John, here it is from the column that was published January 10, 1982: We oldsters consider it rude To take a hot tub in the nude But those young or single Bare bodies do mingle And do not consider it lewd.   P.S. But when alone, whether In fair or foule weather We shed our suits and troubles In the hot steamy bubbles And soak in the altogether.   And so, on National Nude Day, share the bare-naked truth: Will you be in your hot tub in the buff tonight? (I in fact just might!)

So…remember how I said in my previous blog that summer in Seattle doesn’t arrive till July 4^th? Well, this past weekend certainly proves that! I’m a tried and true Pacific Northwest guy, so anytime the temps go about 75 degrees is HOT to me! But one thing that’s also true of me? I’m a hot tubber! Even when the temperature get into the 80’s and 90’s, I still try to make sure I’m getting in a daily soak. After all, there’s nothing like a soak when we are having fabulous weather and crystal clear nights in the Emerald City. Here are a few tips to use your hot tub when the heat is on. Lower the tub temp a bit. Lowering the temperature of your tub to 99 or 100 degrees makes a huge difference when the ambient temperature is that much warmer. The way Hot Spring Spas are insulated, this may require lowering the temp as well as adding an inch or two of cold water to your tub. Lowering the temperature closer to your body’s 98.6 temp will make the water feel refreshing but still feel like a hot tub soak. Try soaking at other times than you normally would. I’m not a big morning person, but when the temperature during the day is so much warmer, sometimes a soak in the morning is perfect. The outdoor temp will be cool enough to hop in the tub and get a nice soak in before starting the day. It’s also pretty terrific to hear the world waking up and enjoying the morning song of the birds. If you’re up even earlier, nothing like taking in the sunrise while in the hot tub! Consider some shade. If you have your hot tub in a spot where it’s exposed to direct sunlight, consider getting an umbrella. Shielding yourself from the sun while soaking is always a smart idea, and will help protect you from the heat as well. A ball cap can be helpful in a pinch. Take a break. One way you can extend your soaking time is to take a periodic break from your entire torso being fully submerged. If your tub has a cool down seat, move there every ten minutes or so. Getting most of your torso out of the water for a few minutes will help your body’s core temperature from elevating too quickly. It’s also a great time to perch on the bar top of the tub and use some of the jets that are normally reserved for your back on your legs and feet instead. It’s terrific!  Drink more! We all know as a general rule when it’s hot it’s important to keep hydrated. Bring something refreshing out to the tub to drink, and make sure you have plenty of it! Lemonade, iced tea, sparkling water or just plain ol’ still water will all be solid options to keep you feeling great. Drink more than you normally do during a soak to make sure your body is getting what it needs in the heat. I hope you’ll all take advantage of your hot tub as often as possible during these warmer days. If it’s part of your regular routine, don’t let the heat interrupt it! Rather, adapt your usage and make sure you’re treating yourself to the escape and therapy it provides.

Can you believe it’s already time for the 4th of July? We in the Northwest know that this is truly the official start of summer in Seattle.  It’s a great time to get together with family and friends and celebrate. In Seattle, the festivities are marked by spectacular fireworks (when the weather cooperates!), family gatherings, and a chance to finally get in the backyard for some barbeque. One way to elevate your Independence Day celebration this year is by incorporating your hot tub into the mix. Here’s how to make your hot tub the centerpiece of your 4th of July party. Set the scene! If you’re going to celebrate the holiday, make sure the hot tub gets some 4^th of July love! Decorate the area with red, white, and blue accents—think streamers, balloons, and red and blue towels. If you have outdoor lighting, consider mixing in red and blue with white bulbs. Add some music from your tub’s Bluetooth music system if you have one or add music via a portable speaker. As the day transitions into night, these small touches will help illuminate the space and keep the vibe lively. Fireworks, anyone? Consider timing your hot tub session to align with the fireworks display. As Seattle's sky lights up with dazzling bursts of color, your guests can enjoy a front-row seat to the spectacle from the soothing warmth of the hot tub. Just remember! Everyone needs to hydrate regularly, especially if they have been consuming alcohol. Yummy eats and drinks! Food and drink are essential for any 4^th of July celebration! so create a spread of portable, easily consumable snacks that guests can enjoy between dips. Think finger foods like sliders, mini hot dogs, and fruit skewers. (I like combining bananas, blueberries and strawberries to keep with the red/white/blue theme.) Opt for drinks that are refreshing yet patriotic; perhaps a red, white, and blue layered cocktail or mocktail. Safety first! Safety is always important during Independence Day. Make sure to have a clear set of rules posted around the hot tub. Use shatterproof drinkware and melamine or other suitable outdoor plates for drinking and eating.  Keep a small first aid kit nearby in case of any minor mishaps. By thoughtfully integrating your hot tub into your 4th of July celebration, you can create a memorable and enjoyable experience for all your guests. Here's to a happy and safe Independence Day!

Have you heard of National Meteor Watch Day? It's a special event on June 30th that celebrates the beauty of meteors streaking across the night sky. Imagine soaking in your hot tub while observing this terrific celestial sky show! Whether you’re here in Seattle or elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest, this is a terrific way to kick off summer soaking in your hot tub. Meteors are fascinating objects. They are small pieces of rock or metal that enter Earth's atmosphere at high speeds. The friction between the meteors and the air creates intense heat, causing them to glow and sometimes disintegrate. Understanding this process adds a layer of appreciation for the beauty you're witnessing. Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through a trail of debris left by a comet. These small particles burn up in the atmosphere, creating bright streaks of light. National Meteor Watch Day usually coincides with the Delta Aquariids meteor shower, which is known for producing many meteors. So, if the conditions are right, you could be in for some exciting meteor viewing. National Meteor Watch Day is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the wonders of the universe. Watching meteors can be calming and awe-inspiring, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. For Seattle residents, where the sky often hides behind clouds, this day is even more special. June 30th often brings clearer skies, perfect for stargazing. And what could be better than watching meteors while lounging in your hot tub? Immersing yourself in hot bubbly water and letting the jets help you relax while you take in the show? Sounds good to me! The design of most hot tub seating naturally reclines your body, giving you an unobstructed view of the sky. To optimize your viewing potential, do your best to get rid of any light pollution! Turning off any exterior lights, as well as your hot tub lighting, will afford you the best chance to spot and enjoy any meteors that might fly across in the night sky. If you’re like me (bad eyes!), you could consider some red lighting if you don’t want total darkness for some reason. Red light is less disruptive to your night vision vs. white or blue light. It will also help you safely move around when you enter and exit the tub. When to meteor watch? Late evening and early morning hours are the best times. On June 30th, try to be outside between 11 PM and 4 AM. During these hours, the sky is darkest, making meteors easier to spot. Seattle's summer nights are relatively short, so you have a smaller window of prime viewing time. Plan your stargazing session accordingly. Bring a few essentials to make your stargazing session more enjoyable. A pair of binoculars can help you see meteors more clearly. A star map or a stargazing app can guide you on where to look. Snacks and drinks are also a good idea, as you might be outside for a while. Just remember to keep them within easy reach, so you don't have to get out of the hot tub. Why not share your meteor-watching experience with friends and family? While you could invite a friend or family member to join you in the soak and take in the show, you can also share via social media. Take selfies and, if you’re successful, any pics of the night sky if you actually spot a meteor. Post and use the hashtag #NationalMeteorWatchDay to connect with others who are also celebrating. You might even inspire someone else to look up at the sky and enjoy the show. Since I installed my hot tub on my rooftop deck, it’s inspired me over the past couple of years to really give the sky my attention. Not only does it enhance my nighttime soaks, it also reminds me of how small we humans are compared to the vastness of the universe. It’s a terrific time to meditate and self-reflect while looking for those meteors. Here’s hoping that the weather cooperates in Seattle, and we’ll all be able to spot a meteor or two. Happy Meteor Watch Day!

April is one of my favorite months at Olympic. The air is charged with the spirit of giving, thanks to our 8^th annual Honoring Heroes Event. This year’s event is dedicated to those who serve and protect—the silent heroes behind the badge. With every purchase of a hot tub or swim spa, a portion of the sale is contributed to an incredible cause, and this year it is our honor to support the Behind the Badge Foundation.

The Behind the Badge Foundation stands as a beacon of support and remembrance. Their noble mission is to remember the courage and dedication of law enforcement officers who have suffered injuries or lost their lives on duty. Supporting families in these critical moments, the foundation is a stabilizing force amidst the turbulence of loss and recovery.

The foundation doesn't stop there; they also diligently maintain the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial. It is a sacred space that commemorates the sacrifices made by officers and serves as a perpetual reminder of their unyielding courage and public service. By choosing to participate in our Honoring Heroes Event, you become part of a community that upholds the legacy of those who serve.

Throughout April, Olympic Hot Tub aims to give back to those who have given their all. The event isn't just about finding your sanctuary in the comfort of a hot tub or swim spa—it's about creating a ripple effect of goodwill that reaches the lives of law enforcement officers and their families.

Here's how you can participate in our Honoring Heroes Event:

• Stop by any of our locations during April, purchase a Hot Spring Spa, Freeflow Spa or Endless Pool, and know that your investment means so much more!
• Share the event with friends and family who may be considering a hot tub or swim spa.
• Visit Behind the Badge Foundation’s website to learn more about their vital work, and spread awareness in your community.

We invite you to be a part of our 8th Annual Honoring Heroes Event. It's an opportunity for us to pay tribute to the valor of our officers and ensure their memories and the well-being of their loved ones are always held in the highest honor.

Did you know? There are about fifty-four million adults in the U.S. suffering from some type of arthritis. There are over 100 variations of the condition that have been identified. Arthritis, which affects our joints, can cause pain, stiffness, swelling and make doing some very basic tasks sometimes daunting. While there is no cure for arthritis, there are definitely ways to manage it and improve day to day life: exercise, weight management and medication. But, if you want to integrate a tried and true natural method, a hot tub could be the perfect answer.

There is a terrific array of real benefits that soaking will provide to those living with arthritis. Consider these:

 

• The pain experienced from arthritis can be eased with soaking in 102-104 degree water. As you soak, your blood vessels will dilate as your body heats, improving blood flow and helping ease pain and stiffness.
• Immersion in hot water provides instant aid, thanks to the buoyancy you experience. It relieves pressure on your joints, providing relief.
• Let’s talk about jets! Adjustable jets in a hot tub that combine the power of air and hot water can help massage away muscle tenderness and facilitate flexibility.
• The buoyancy and heat experienced during a hot tub soak make it the perfect place to do some stretches that can increase your range of movement and help eliminate stiffness.
• Stress can exacerbate the symptoms of arthritis. It’s been well documented that regular hot tub soaks greatly alleviate stress, thanks to the increased production of dopamine and endorphins. You’ll emerge feeling better physically, mentally and emotionally!

 

The key to maximizing the benefits of hot water for arthritis is consistent soaks. You should consult with your doctor to determine the right regimen for you to follow. In general, regular hot tub sessions that last anywhere from 15-30 minutes at least 3-4 times per week should help you realize the cumulative effects. It should help improve your range of motion as well as help reduce pain associated with arthritis.

The line of Hot Spring Spas we carry at Olympic have the added benefit of saltwater soaking! Not only will you be immersing yourself in healthier water, but you’ll also be using fewer bottled water care products, limiting exposure to any harsh chemicals. You’d love the way it makes you feel!

A swim spa has fast become one of the top additions to backyards across America. Olympic added Endless Pools to its offerings this year, giving our customers another way to enhance their health and wellness through daily swims—and we love it! Adding a swim spa to your backyard is more than just getting the spot ready for it. What you plant around your swim spa will create a terrific backdrop and make time in your backyard all that more enjoyable. Great landscaping with the right plants will really spruce up the surrounding area and make it a terrific place to entertain. Look no further than the thriving landscape of the Pacific Northwest for some terrific options! Our cool and rainy climate is perfect for certain types of plants that will not only add a touch of nature to your outdoor oasis but also provide some practical benefits. Here are some plant suggestions to add around your swim spa.  

1. Ferns—Ferns are a terrific choice. They thrive in shady and damp environments, so having them around your swim spa will be a great addition. They’re relatively low-maintenance plants that don't require a lot of sunlight. Having ferns around your swim spa creates a lush and natural environment while also providing some privacy.
2. Hostas—I love hostas. They’re a fantastic plant sporting large leaves that come in a variety of colors, and they grow well in shady areas. Hostas are low maintenance and do well in areas with high humidity, making them a perfect addition around your swim spa.
3. Rhododendrons—Rhodies are a Northwest staple. We had a number of these in our yard when I was growing up. They bloom in the spring and come in shades of red, white, pink and purple. They’re an ideal choice in the Northwest, as they’re evergreen and grow well in a damp shady climate.
4. Hydrangeas—Hydrangeas are relatively easy to grow and thrive in the Pacific Northwest's damp climate. These lovely flowers come in a variety of shades, such as white, pink, or blue. Having a few pots of hydrangeas around your swim spa will add some brightness and color to your outdoor space.
5. Bamboo--If you're looking for a plant to add some privacy to your swim spa area, bamboo is a great option. You can plant bamboo that grows quickly and makes for a fantastic natural fence. I, however, would make sure to plant bamboo in pots so it doesn’t run rampant in your backyard!

  These are a few of the plant options to add to the area around your swim spa. Ferns, hostas, rhododendrons, hydrangeas, and bamboo will create a terrific environment and thrive in the Pacific Northwest's wet and cool climate. A visit to your local nursery to consult with experts could reveal even more options that will create depth and beauty to your swim spa oasis. You’ll be on your way to a natural sanctuary in your own backyard in no time!

October 26th, 2023 –Are you a runner? I will confess that the last thing I would want to do to stay fit is jog. As it is, I find it challenging enough to get to a gym a few times a week to do a workout with my trainer. Ugh! Well…if you would rather soak in a hot tub that hit the trails for a job, here’s some encouraging news! A new study from the UK indicates soaking in a hot tub has some of the same benefits as a 30-minute run. Not a typo! You read that right. Researchers from Coventry University conducted a study with participants ranging in age from 26 to 60 years old. They asked the individuals involved in the research to soak in a hot tub three consecutive days for a half hour each time. Various factors were assessed: heart rate, cortisol levels, mood, and blood pressure among them. The study determined that blood flow to the legs increased by 345% (!!). That’s comparable to the blood flow increase that results from a 30-minut run. Heart rate increased to the level that normally occurs during a brisk walk, and blood pressure decreased. Salivary cortisol levels decreased by 22%. This is one of the indicators of stress, which means the soak is also beneficial for mood and mental health. I wouldn’t tell you to ditch your running shoes if you’re an avid jogger. Physical exercise is one of the best ways for us to ward off aging, moderate weight and help with blood pressure and more. BUT! Isn’t it wonderful to know you can substitute a soak in a hot tub every once in a while and enjoy some of the same physical and mental benefits you can enjoy from a run? It makes me want to run….right up to my hot tub.

October 3rd, 2023 – Can you believe it’s October?? Halloween is just around the corner, and before you know it, we’ll be fully immersed in the holiday season. For me, part of the holidays is enjoying so much of what our region’s artists and arts organizations offer to entertain and inspire us. And it’s one of the reasons why we’ve chosen Artist Trust as this year’s beneficiary of our Founder’s Event. Arts in our region were particularly hard hit by the pandemic. Unlike most of the areas of our lives on the way back to normal, life for artists and our arts organizations have had a harder time. For many years, Artist Trust has shown up for artists beyond monetary support. They work to elevate artists throughout Washington State, centering on those with diverse ethnicity and gender identities, as well as those with disabilities. They work to support and encourage artists working in all disciplines—music, art, writing and more. Sustaining and supporting art is so critical! It has the power to transform, enlighten, educate, inspire and motivate. I have been a singing member of the Seattle Men’s Chorus since 1987 and had the joy of working with many local artists in greater Seattle over the years. It’s important now more than ever to help preserve the incredible artistic talent we’re fortunate surrounds us in the Pacific Northwest. During October, a portion of every Hot Spring Spa, Freeflow Spa, and Endless Pools swim spa we sell will be donated to Artist Trust. If you or someone you know has been thinking about a hot tub or swim spa, this is the perfect month to purchase! You’ll not only take your health and well-being to a new level, you’ll also help the vital health and well-being of the arts in our region. “Art is my life, and my life is art.” –Yoko Ono You can donate directly at learn more at Artist Trust here.