A salt cave is one of many therapies used by health spas. Its use is said to promote healing because of the natural salt properties. Not only can these rooms possibly help relieve allergies and asthma symptoms, they can also help you relax, decrease stress, and feel better both mentally and physically. They have been around for over 100 years and are popular in Eastern Europe. However, they have been gaining momentum in the United States in recent years in areas such as New York, Orlando, Chicago, and Los Angeles, to name a few.
What Makes It Such a Good Therapy?
The key to this helpful therapy is the additional exposure to the minerals found in the element, such as iodine, potassium, and bromide, things we don’t get enough of in our everyday lives. These minerals have a natural calming effect on your brain. Also, because salt is antibacterial and antifungal, the air in these rooms is much cleaner than normal air. As you relax and breathe in the clean air, your breathing will slow and deepen as your airways open up. Experts say that after about an hour in one of these rooms, you’ll naturally feel less stressed, re-energized, and healthy.
There are some devices that may be used to control the concentration of the element so that certain conditions can be treated more effectively. For example, if you are being treated for a specific respiratory problem, the concentration may be set to a higher level. The element helps this type of problem by pushing water into the airways, which thins and helps your body naturally remove mucus. At even higher concentrations, the therapy has been shown to help with skin problems such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. However, be sure to consult your physician before undergoing any alternative type of therapy for a specific medical condition.
What Does It Look Like?
A salt cave is designed to give you a different relaxation experience. Most rooms have a thick layer of salt on the floor. The walls and ceilings have the element incorporated in different ways, with some streaming down walls or hanging from the ceiling, much like stalactites. There are usually chairs or lounges for you to sit down, relax, and soak up the clean air. The room smells similar to the beach, and you will probably taste it on your lips. Natural, pure salt is normally used. Some places may use the rocky type, depending on the location.
You will likely be asked to wear some shoe covers to protect your shoes as well as the minerals. You may choose to wear the robe and booties provided. Most businesses provide rooms for multiple customers at a time, but some also offer private rooms and sessions.
A salt cave may be worth a visit if you want a different kind of natural relaxation therapy that may also help you with some common respiratory or skin conditions.
