‘Robe Time’: the secret to relaxation revealed
Need to reduce stress? More ‘robe time’ is the answer!
If you’ve visited Wai Ariki before, you know that our signature hot springs and spa experiences come with one essential item – a specialised, Wai Ariki bathrobe.
But, not only provided for your comfort and privacy, did you know that simply wrapping yourself up in a robe helps you to relax?
Whether you’re seeking an excuse to indulge in Rotorua’s most luxurious spa, massage and hot spring adventures – or simply want to elevate your relaxation at home – unwinding through ‘robe time’ is the answer.
Science backs up what we already know, that wearing a robe just feels good. Here’s why:
- Association with Luxury
At Wai Ariki, luxury is at the heart of everything we do, and robes are no exception!
In line with this, many people associate bathrobes with places such as high-end spas and hotels, where relaxation and pampering is the goal. This link can create a placebo-like effect, making you feel more at ease simply by wearing a robe.
- Psychological Comfort
The brain also associates certain clothing items with specific activities. Given that we often wear a bathrobe after bathing, before bed, or during a slow morning, our brain learns to associate this piece of clothing with winding down or taking it easy.
Therefore, changing into a robe can act as a mental cue that transitions us from work mode to relaxation mode – unconsciously reducing stress and mental clutter.
- Sensory Relaxation
The feeling of soft, plush fabric against the skin can activate sensory receptors that promote relaxation.
Similar to the effect of a blanket, the sensation of feeling cosy and protected activates the body’s ‘rest and digest’ mode, lowering heart rate and blood pressure.
- Thermal Regulation
In Rotorua, we’re all about (geo)thermal waters, heat and energy. Similarly, regulating body temperature is crucial for comfort, with warmer clothing linked to muscle relaxation and increased blood flow, helping to reduce tension.
Many guests tell us they sleep more deeply after a visit to Wai Ariki – and it turns out, there’s a scientific reason for that! Particularly if you’re hopping out of hot springs, a shower or a bath, studies suggest that putting on a robe afterwards helps to prolong that warmth and relaxed state, therefore improving sleep quality.
So, to amp up your ‘robe time’, it might be time to get reacquainted with that bathrobe, dressing gown, or oodie hanging on the hook behind your bedroom door.
And once you’re all rugged up, what better way to keep that feeling going than booking for your next trip to Wai Ariki? Our Wai Whakaora Restorative Journey and Āhuru Mōwai Sanctuary Spa are ready and waiting for you with open arms and a fluffy robe! Book now: www,wai-ariki.co.nz
Relax and de-stress in robes at Wai Ariki.
