What I Learned About Self-Care After Finally Stepping Into a Hot Tub

After five years of writing about spas, filming tutorials, and helping others learn how to care for their hot tubs, I finally did something unexpected: I took my own advice.

It wasn’t planned. I was on-site at The Great Escape’s Joliet, IL showroom, working with our video crew—another long day on my feet, juggling scripts, shot lists, and re-shoots. Across the showroom floor, bubbling waters shimmered under soft lighting.

Should I finally try it? I had my swimsuit with me from my lap swim earlier that morning, so I had what I needed to get in. I knew the jets were great for sore muscles, and that's exactly what I needed before the long drive home. 

And for the first time, those calming waters didn’t look like a product. They looked like a pause. A reset. An invitation.

So, I accepted. 

The Wet Test

Our team offers something called a spa wet test, where customers can bring their swimsuit and try a filled (or "wet") hot tub before they buy. We'll show you the best options based on your preferences, warm it up, and walk you through the settings so you can experience it for yourself.

As someone who swims laps twice a week, I thought I knew water. But soaking in the Jacuzzi J-495 was something else entirely.

The warmth alone was a revelation. I chose a corner seat, cushioned headrest behind me, and felt the curve of the lounger cradle my sore legs. Tony, our store expert, showed me how to use the touchscreen panel and adjust the air boosters to deepen the massage. Within seconds, targeted jets worked their way into tired calves, lower back, even my hands and feet. One seat even had infrared support built into the backrest. It was precise, enveloping, and soothing.

After about 10 minutes, I had to step out to hydrate. I’d broken a sweat without even moving. So yes, if you’re thinking of doing a wet test: bring a towel and water. You’ll be glad you did.

Switching Things Up: Signature Monterey

Next, I stepped into the Signature Monterey, one of our private-label spas. Because we had recently filmed filter and cover maintenance tutorials with the tub turned off, the water was cooler than the J-495. And honestly? That contrast felt amazing.

The Monterey had a completely different personality. With water shooters, color-changing lights, and a little disco ball feature, it felt like a party tub—one I could easily imagine my daughter and her cousins having the time of their lives in. The waterfall wasn’t as soothing for me (the seat sat higher, so the water hit my neck instead of my shoulders), but I appreciated the ambiance it created.

The jet pressure and air controls still offered that “tenderized in the best way” feeling for sore muscles, though I found myself missing the detailed foot and hand jets of the J-495. Both were relaxing in their own way, but the J-495 gave me the deeper sense of relaxation I was looking for.

A Mother's Day Reminder—Or Just a Personal One

This experience happened on a regular workday, when I realized I couldn’t keep telling people to care for themselves if I never made time to do the same.

So maybe this blog post is a reminder. Not just to other moms, but to all of us who put ourselves last on the list. It’s okay to step away. It’s okay to try something new. It’s okay to say: “Today, I choose calm.”

Whether that’s a wet test, a full-body massage from 47 jets, or simply sitting in warm, still water with nothing to do but breathe—let it be for you.

You deserve it.

📍Interested in trying a spa wet test?

Visit your nearest Great Escape showroom and ask our team to guide you through the experience. Bring your suit, bring your questions, and give yourself permission to feel the difference.