Thalassotherapy is a technique that uses elements of the marine environment (sea water, algae, sand, mud) to improve people’s health. Its effectiveness is incredible!
Thalassotherapy consists of the therapeutic use of seawater and other elements of the marine environment, such as algae, sand, mud or the breeze itself. Its name derives from two Greek words: thalassa, read ‘sea’, and therapia, read ‘cure’.
Its origins date back to ancient Greece, in the writings of Hippocrates, who recommended the use of seawater to alleviate some ailments. In the Roman Empire, also, hot seawater baths helped soldiers to recover from battles.
It was incredibly popular all over Europe, especially in Italy, England and France. The first official thalassotherapy center was founded in the 20th century: the Rochroum Marine Institute, located in France.
Uses
The underlying principle of thalassotherapy is immersion in warm seawater and application of sea mud and algae, which would contribute to the body’s natural chemical balance. This is essential, as it would help the skin absorb the minerals it needs (potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and iodine).
Likewise, seawater contains substances similar to real blood plasma. But it contains a greater amount of magnesium chloride, sodium chloride, potassium and other elements.
To guarantee the success of this technique, it is important that the place has the necessary hygiene measures and specialized personnel.
Recommendations
Thalassotherapy helps people address a number of conditions, including body aches, skin conditions such as psoriasis, rheumatism and osteoporosis, tendonitis, and low back pain.
It is also great for circulation problems, such as bruises, varicose veins, and recurrent nosebleeds. Recommendations are not less common when there are emotional conditions due to stress and depression.
For its part, this therapeutic technique is discouraged in cancer, severe hypertension, feverish symptoms and psychosis.
Types of thalassotherapy
Thalassotherapy includes a series of therapeutic techniques that take advantage of the properties of the marine elements to improve health and physical appearance. There are various forms of application, and we will tell you about them.
Sea water hydrotherapy
It includes baths in tubs, either hot or cold (37 degrees Celsius), whirlpools, infusion sprays and underwater showers. These techniques help in relaxing the body, stimulating circulation, alleviating respiratory system problems, and improving muscle tone.
Algotherapy
It consists of the use of fresh or dried seaweed. They are usually added into hot seawater baths or applied as thin wraps on the skin.
Seaweed is rich in minerals, proteins, and minerals. They have a revitalizing, antioxidant and disinfectant action. Therefore, they can help you tone your muscles, drain fluids and help in the treatment of skin problems.
Marine climatotherapy
The marine environment is rich in iodine, ozone and minerals, so you should take advantage of it. This would help the respiratory system and the skin. Likewise, sea air has relaxing effects to calm and improve mood disorders.
Hydrocisnotherapy
It consists of performing therapeutic exercises in seawater, especially in a pool prepared for it. It is helpful in the the treatment of physical ailments.
Psamotherapy
It consists of covering the body with hot sand. The purpose is to relieve joint or muscle conditions, providing heat to the affected area of the body. In addition, it can benefit the muscular and skeletal structure.
Peloidotherapy
In this case, peloids are used, such as sea mud, algae, clay and limestones. These are excellent for the skin, as they are loaded with vitamins, minerals and proteins.
These are excellent to treat conditions in the musculoskeletal system (arthritis, osteoarthritis) or skin (acne, psoriasis, dermatitis).
Main benefits of thalassotherapy
Is there accrual scientific evidence that confirms thalassotherapy’s benefits? Yes, indeed. Check them out!
Relieves fatigue, stiffness and muscle pain
There is that thalassotherapy has a positive effect on recovery from muscle damage and fatigue. This contributes to improving the health and quality of life of those who suffer from these conditions.
Aerobic exercises in seawater provide more advantages than other modalities. They cause an improvement in the emotional state of patients.
Promotes circulation
Seawater therapy improves blood circulation, which in turn helps relieve muscle spasms and replenish the body with oxygen and nutrients.
A study showed that the thalassotherapy algae improve circulation when applied in cosmetics.
Relieves joint pain
It greatly relieves joint pain and increases movement in the joints. Aquatic treatment, such as thalassotherapy, improves the function of the joints between bones. It also promotes a positive mood and relaxation.
Improves skin conditions
Thalassotherapy, naturally, helps people various skin conditions. In fact, the minerals and trace elements present in the marine environment provide the substances necessary to soothe skin irritation (in cases of psoriasis and dermatitis) or accelerate wound healing.
Stimulates emotional processes
Thalassotherapy, in combination with sleep management techniques, reduces daytime sleepiness, improves mood and cognitive function, lowers levels of anger, stress, and depression. It also increases the quality of sleep and relieves anxiety when you apply it at night.
Consult a professional before doing thalassotherapy
If you suffer from any condition and want to apply this therapeutic technique, the ideal is that you first consult a health specialist. In fact, they will know how to give you the proper indications according to your case.
Remember that there are contraindications.
However, if you’re not suffering from a health condition and simply want to benefit from the marine environment, just take a trip to the beach, breathe in the breeze and relax.
Don’t forget to SHARE everything you know about this amazing therapy with your friends and family on your social networks!
