Ancient Wellness Trend Makes a Modern Comeback: The Rise of Therapeutic Water Soaking
In the ever-expanding wellness world, one of the latest trends is actually one of the oldest: soaking in, and sometimes drinking, therapeutic waters. From ancient Greece to Asia, the practice of using mineral-rich baths for various health benefits has been around for centuries. Now, with various forms of hydrotherapy making a comeback, wellness entrepreneurs are debuting properties centered on bathing.
One such place is Eynsham Baths in Oxfordshire, England, where husband-and-wife hospitality entrepreneurs Sharan Pasricha and Eiesha Bharti Pasricha have created a 3,000-square-foot neo-Classical-style building with thermal pools, a lounge, and treatment rooms. Sharan believes in the natural healing powers of water and wanted to bring the history of the estate into the modern day.
In Italy, the luxurious Palazzo Fiuggi offers visitors the chance to drink natural mineral waters believed to have healing properties. The waters, enriched by passing beneath local chestnut forests, are said to calm the nerves and boost the immune system. Guests at the health retreat can enjoy daily soaks in magnesium-and-salt-infused pools as part of their wellness programs.
In the remote town of Jacumba Hot Springs, California, a neglected hot springs spa has been transformed into a vibrant 20-room property with mineral-rich pools. The property owners have also been working to revive the surrounding town by restoring the local hot springs-fed lake and hosting free weekly concerts.
Bad Gastein, once a glamorous spa town frequented by Austria’s Empress Sisi, is experiencing a revival with the opening of the Badeschloss hotel. The waters of Bad Gastein contain low levels of radon, which is used in small doses to treat rheumatic diseases. Guests can enjoy radon baths at the nearby health center or relax in the hotel’s rooftop pool with mountain views.
In Japan, the tradition of onsen (hot springs) is deeply ingrained in the culture. Architect Kengo Kuma has been designing luxurious modern versions of these traditional structures, with the latest being Kai Yufuin on the island of Kyushu. The property offers geothermal pools, elegant meals, and post-bath massages, providing guests with a unique and rejuvenating experience.
As the trend of therapeutic water soaking continues to gain popularity, these properties offer a glimpse into the ancient practice of using water for healing and relaxation in a modern and luxurious setting.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/StockTradingSettlements-final-61c8bcdd161a41c68a7bd0a9bbf6dd12.png?w=1068&resize=1068,0&ssl=1 "Implications of a Shorter Stock Trade Settlement Cycle (T+1) for Investors")
