Natural salt caves have existed for more than a century and have long been embraced for their health benefits. Now, manmade salt caves are growing increasingly popular and providing the same benefits. Essentially, they are designed to be similar to Himalayan salt caves. Often featuring pink Himalayan salt, manmade salt caves are used for salt therapy, also known as halotherapy. Frequently, a manmade salt cave consists of rock lamps, soothing background music, and reclining chairs. At a session, salt is diffused through a halogenerator that distributes minuscule sodium chloride particles into the air, which provide guests with a wide range of benefits. Generally, the room is kept at 70 degrees with low humidity.
As people learn more about the health and wellness benefits associated with halotherapy, manmade salt caves and booths are becoming an integral part of the spa industry. More consumers are starting to embrace halotherapy and have reported beneficial results. Read on to learn more about salt therapy and its impact on overall well-being.
A Look at the History of Halotherapy
While salt therapy has become more popular in recent years, it has been around for much longer. Salt therapy, which is believed to have been created by the physician Feliks Boczkowski in the mid-19th century, was originally intended to treat respiratory issues among coal miners. In addition, halotherapy was used during World War II, when soldiers with various ailments experienced improvement after hiding in natural salt caves. As time went on, salt therapy began to gain traction as a preventative method for maintaining one’s mental and physical health.
The renewed interest in salt therapy is part of a massive shift that focuses on improving overall health and exploring alternative treatments and therapies. Since salt therapy is non-invasive and all-natural, it has become popular among people who have embraced a holistic approach to health.
Benefits of Salt Therapy
While the health benefits of salt therapy are one of its main selling points, many people wonder just how much it can improve one’s mental and physical well-being. It is believed that salt therapy is a powerful antioxidant that can help to counter inflammation that many people with atopic dry skin experience. Additionally, salt naturally possesses negative ions, which are believed to improve the body’s natural set point (or homeostasis) and greatly assist with respiratory issues such as allergies, bronchitis, and asthma.
In addition to respiratory and digestive problems, salt therapy has shown to be effective in treating a number of common skin conditions. For those with skin issues such as eczema, dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, and rosacea, halotherapy is one way to alleviate symptoms. Since many skin conditions represent an inflammatory response, the anti-inflammatory nature of salt is one way to treat these conditions.
Salt therapy is thought to be particularly effective when it is combined with other holistic treatments such as saunas or cold plunge pool therapy. Salt therapy sessions, which can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, are generally suitable for both adults and children. Salt therapy provides a unique experience and a great way to unwind.
Many people have found halotherapy to be beneficial. Individuals who are attempting to minimize their dependence on pharmaceuticals have been particularly receptive to salt therapy. Halotherapy spa owners have received great feedback, and many patrons have sung the praises of halotherapy, indicating that regular sessions have had a positive impact on everything from symptoms of depression to digestive issues. Moreover, people often feel more calm after a halotherapy session.
Halotherapy Is Growing More Common
While salt therapy at luxury spas is growing more common, the practice is also becoming more accessible to the masses. Halotherapy booths are the newest form of salt therapy and offer a convenient way to experience its benefits while on the go. Common locations for halotherapy booths include hotels, shopping malls, and even airports, which makes it easy to recharge while on the go.
Some believe that salt therapy booths could prove potentially more beneficial than salt caves due to the confined space. Since there is less space in a salt booth in comparison to the expansiveness of a cave, the salt becomes more concentrated and allows the participants to feel the positive effects much more quickly.
The Takeaways
The growing popularity of salt therapy is a testament to how effective it is. For those who are interested in alternative treatments for common ailments or who are attempting to become more spiritually connected and relaxed, salt caves and salt booths are an excellent choice.