Salt of the earth: Could this natural, centuries-old therapy help alleviate your anxiety?
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Salt therapy is getting a lot of attention right now—and potentially for good reason. More formally known as halotherapy, salt therapy is a treatment that's said to benefit the body in all sorts of ways through inhaling salty air. In an ideal world, you'd do so by visiting a gorgeous spa complete with a salt cave, but there are ways you can mimic the experience at home. Why, you ask? Salt therapy is said to have skin and respiratory benefits, and may help with stress and anxiety. And let's face it—we could all use a little help in the stress department these days. But does it work?
Image: Courtesy of Saltana Spa
Forms of salt therapy have existed in several cultures even before the development of modern medicine, most notably ancient Egypt and Greece. Today, salt caves have become a popular spa-like experience; much like sitting in a steam room, breathing in the salty air acts as a decongestant with cleansing properties, which is believed to assist with respiratory ailments, including colds. While they're prevalent Stateside, the salt cave ritual has begun to captivate Scotland, too, with countless spas serving up a slice of Himalayan salt heaven. However, there are several ways you can channel the salt cave experience from the comfort of your own home.
Image: @brittainytaylor
Light Up
Himalayan salt lamps are relatively commonplace and can be purchased for as little as £15, making them relatively affordable. While they won't produce the beneficial inhalation properties you'd experience at a spa, they give off a calming light akin to an authentic salt cave. We recommend turning off all other abrasive light sources and unwinding in the light of a salt lamp before bed for a deeper sleep.
Take A Dip
Soaking in a Himalayan salt crystal bath is like soaking in an ocean of energy. Your body will resonate with the natural frequency of the minerals in the salt bath, which is said to have recharging properties. Some claim regular salt baths will also boost metabolism.
Invigorate The Air
Those who truly want to replicate the salt cave experience can invest in a salt therapy air purifier, specifically a Salin Plus. The device will simultaneously remove airborne pollutants, such as dust and pollen, while releasing small, therapeutic salt ions into the air, which will help to destress as it stimulates your airways.
WHERE TO FIND SALT THERAPY ACROSS SCOTLAND
EDINBURGH One Spa at the Sheraton Hotel boasts a blissful salt space
BANCHORY The Salt Sanctuary is the North East’s only salt treatment facility
INVERNESS The city’s Salt Therapy Centre is a must-visit for holistic aficionados