Detox, destress, and rejuvenate your body and mind with mineral springs and baths. Whether traveling for a wellness vacation or soaking at home, mineral baths have proven health benefits.
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A great vacation can also spark the beginning of a new healthy routine. From the valleys of Nevada to the mountains of Armenia, travelers and health enthusiasts are seeking out nature to revive the body both mentally and physically by soaking in mineral springs. For centuries, these natural wonders have rejuvenated people who sought out the healing waters to cure skin diseases, soothe aching muscles, and reduce inflammation. Today, not much has changed. Minerals springs continue to be a natural wonder that offers healing for the mind and body.
“Mineral baths and springs can help the skin absorb minerals, which may help alleviate conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and chronic dry skin.” Adam Zagha, a Licensed Mental Health Specialist with over 13 years of experience exploring holistic wellness practices, shares his thoughts on the significant health benefits, both physical and mental, of mineral baths. “Minerals like magnesium, sulfur, and calcium can reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, and improve moisture retention,” he explains.
If you’re seeking a travel adventure, mineral baths are a relaxing way to indulge in luxury on your holiday. Or, if it’s a healthy new routine you’re after, immerse yourself in a soak at home. Either way, you’re reaping the health benefits and offering your body and mind a calm retreat to heal your body and mind… something we could all use during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Jermuk, Armenia is known as a health resort town due to the 40+ hot mineral springs that are known for their healing properties.
“Mineral baths can also improve mental health,” Adam states. For centuries hot springs have been used throughout the world for medicinal purposes. Recent studies have also shown that hot springs can have a positive effect on mental health thanks in part to the minerals magnesium, sulfur, and lithium. These are naturally found in hot springs and play a role in regulating the central nervous system and have been shown to help with anxiety and depression. Natural environments also lower stress hormone levels. And, as Adam explains, “warm water promotes relaxation by increasing serotonin production, easing anxiety, and reducing stress levels. The soothing environment enhances overall mental well-being, offering a sense of calm and mindfulness.”
One myth about mineral baths worth mentioning is the link between mineral baths and weight loss. “While mineral baths alone don’t burn many calories, the warm temperature can increase heart rate and circulation, providing a mild metabolic boost,” Adam states. “This effect can complement a healthy lifestyle but isn’t a substitute for regular exercise.”
Spencer Hot Springs Nevada is a cluster of rustic hot springs offering stunning views of the Nevada desert and wildlife.
In France, you can get a prescription for a 21-day hydrotherapy program. Mineral springs are known to be a remedy for arthritis, poor digestion, high blood pressure, and even sleep apnea due to the combination of heat, pressure, and naturally occurring minerals that can detoxify the body. “Regarding detoxification, mineral springs may help support the body’s natural detoxification process. Minerals like sulfur have cleansing properties that aid in removing impurities from the skin’s surface,” Adam states. Sulfur is commonly used today in many topical medications for chronic inflammatory diseases. “While it’s not a cure-all for detoxification, it can contribute to an overall detox routine,” Adam explains.
Herbivore DETOX Soaking Salts $22 is made with Pacific Sea Salts and Cambrian Blue Clay with a mineral composition that includes calcium, iron, magnesium, silicon, aluminum, titanium, potassium, and sodium. Packaged in a recyclable glass bottle.
Traveling for a wellness holiday? From Nevada to Armenia, there are hot springs around the world for you to visit and reap the benefits. Do a little research ahead of time to find the spring that’s right for you, whether you’re seeking a rustic natural setting or a luxury spa. “Tourists seeking a health-boosting experience should choose springs rich in beneficial minerals like magnesium, sulfur, and calcium,” Adam says. “He also suggests opting for “well-maintained pools that ensure safety and hygiene and “Consulting with local experts or researching the spring’s mineral composition can help guide the decision.”
If you’re luxuriating in a staycation, invest in bath salts you can add for a relaxing and detoxifying soak. You’ll still reap some of the benefits from relaxing in a hot bath, and you’ll enjoy unwinding in one of nature’s gifts- water!