Benefits of Mineral Baths and Hot Springs Therapy

HYDROTHERAPY and WELLNESS: How it works

The various dissolved minerals and oligo-elements contained in the thermal waters are absorbed by the skin pores and reach directly the blood cells and the whole circulatory/vasculatory system. This kind of absorption through the skin is less harmful to the digestive tract and more beneficial than ingesting for instance the equivalent in the form of mineral supplements (which are often manufactured synthetically, and hence less absorbable by the human body).

Soaking in hot mineral water helps the body to get rid of toxins which are one of the main causes of many pathologies (like arthritis, rheumatism, chronic fatigue, etc.). Indeed, the human body is like a magnet attracting – in the form of positive ions- heavy metals, free radicals and other chemicals present in our food, air and water. The negativily charged ions of the minerals draw the toxic particles out of the body through the skin pores, resulting not only in clean healthier skin, but causing an overall sense of wellbeing and increased energy.

Besides reducing muscle tension and increasing blood circulation, hot mineral baths have also a positive impact on the human psyche. Based on the laws of Archimedes, the human body becomes lighter, movements are easier, muscle relaxation sets in, which in turn appeases the mind. (It reduces stress-levels and has an overall impact on your wellbeing.)

By bathing in Amatitlan`s volcanic waters, you will note that you are floating more than in normal swimming pools: this is due to the density of their mineral and volcanic properties. Learn more about our Wellness Program & Spa Treatments in Guatemala by Spa-Med-Holiday.

Hydrotherapy & Wellness worldwide

Americans and Europeans are rediscovering the wisdom of ancient Civilizations regarding the healing properties of Mother Nature and are recurring to a natural “soft” medicine.

In Italy, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Japan, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan and Korea, hot springs therapy is widely accepted to alleviate chronic illnesses like arthritis, rheumatism, high blood pressure, and skin problems. In the U.S., Dr. Andrew WEIL, the guru of Integrative Medicine, considers hot mineral baths as a positive complement to traditional Western Medicine. The Japanese practice their Onsen, or hot spring culture, to raise energy levels, as well as a social and therapeutic ritual.

Approximately 30 million people enjoy every year the health benefits of SPA or HYDROtherapy. The W.H.O. has also recognized the healing effects of Hydrotherapy. (World Health Organization, resolution EB77,R16 of 17-01-1987).

In Guatemala, the contemporary Maya still resort to the "temazcal" for health purposes, together with the use of herbs. The Temezcal (also called “temazcal”) is the pre-hispanic version of our contemporary steam baths (to learn more: see www.wikipedia.org)

CAUTION: Hydrotherapy is NOT suited for persons suffering of cardiac pathology, of severe respiratory or circulatory problems, nor for very weak or terminally ill patients, or suffering from fever attacks.

Note Vocabulary: The word SPA we use here refers to the Latin expression "Salus per Aquam" which has a therapeutic effect using natural mineral water from volcanic origin, unlike other resorts or beauty salons who offer body or facial "spa" treatments under glamorous names while using regular tap water often mixed with synthetic additives.