More people are becoming open to the idea of wellness-centered vacations that not only allow them to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life but also contribute to overall mental and physical well-being and facilitate positive change. Hot spring vacations and wellness retreats have gained more recognition as people search for vacation experiences with deeper meanings.
Find out everything you need to know about planning a hot springs excursion.
What Is a Hot Spring?
A hot spring occurs naturally in locations where the water temperature naturally exceeds 98 degrees Fahrenheit (36.7 degrees Celsius). Also sometimes called thermal springs, hot springs are formed in a variety of ways. The most common is volcanic activity. When magma (or lava) heats up, water in the ground that comes into contact with hot rocks is subsequently heated.
Many people believe that hot springs have special restorative properties, which makes them ideally suited for healing and spa treatments. In fact, the word spa originated in Spa, Belgium, which is home to a number of naturally-occurring hot springs.
Some of the therapeutic benefits attributed to hot springs include: relief of muscle and joint pain; a soothing effect on skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis; improved circulation; and reduction of the production of the stress hormone cortisol. Aside from these benefits, hot springs are naturally rich in minerals like magnesium, sodium, potassium, and sulfur. These minerals are beneficial for eliminating toxins, clearing the skin, and reducing inflammatory responses in the body.
Popular Hot Spring Resort Amenities
The most popular hot spring resorts offer various therapeutic spa treatments that harness the healing power of these warm bodies of water. In the United States, many hot spring resorts are located on the west coast, where fault lines and mountains create the perfect environment for a restorative hot spring experience.
Aside from hot spring-based therapies, many of the top resorts also offer a variety of holistic spa treatments ranging from salt cave therapy to mud baths. Additionally, numerous resorts offer total restorative experiences, incorporating mindfulness meditation, yoga, and other self-exploration exercises in conjunction with the use of hot springs.
When it comes to soaking in hot springs, some resorts have a clothing-optional policy. Visitors have a chance to commune with other like-minded individuals, but may also be able to engage in solo hot spring sessions. Set against natural backdrops like forests, national parks, or mountain ranges, hot springs resorts offer an unforgettable healing experience.
Is a Hot Springs Retreat Right for You?
Hot springs are relaxing and restorative experiences . However, it is important to do your research before deciding a hot springs retreat is right for you. As with anything naturally-occurring, hot springs can be unpredictable. This means there are some associated risks. Fortunately, a little bit of advanced planning can help you mitigate these risks.
One of the inherent risks of soaking in a natural spring is that there are no chemicals present to eliminate bacteria that may be present in the water, especially in resorts where many people soak in the same water. Though the presence of bacteria is not generally dangerous, let alone life-threatening, it is important to ask about measures the resort has taken to limit your exposure to any pathogens.
The hot temperatures of the water in some hot springs make them less susceptible to the growth of undesirable bacteria, but it is always best to double-check before booking a hot spring vacation. Overall, the chance of becoming ill from soaking in a hot spring is relatively low, according to the CDC.
The water flow in some hot springs is greater than others. When you see a hot spring pool with lots of water circulation, the water is more likely to be safe. If you visit a hot spring that appears to have debris floating on the surface, its best to avoid soaking and engage in alternate spa treatments instead. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and read online reviews to gauge the safety of the resort you have in mind. It is also wise to ask your doctor whether soaking in hot springs is safe for you.
In addition to safety, other things you should research before booking include the recommended duration of a visit, all the treatments offered by the facility you are interested in, and what the area lodging and dining opportunities are, particularly if you will not be staying on-site. By learning what to expect beforehand, you can improve your chances of having a positive hot springs resort experience.