Thalassotherapy, derived from the Greek word "thalassa" meaning sea, is an ancient practice of utilizing seawater for therapeutic purposes, with roots dating back to ancient traditions and gaining popularity in coastal Europe during the 18th century.
Dr. Richard Russell, a physician from England, is credited with promoting seawater as a remedy for gland diseases in the 18th century, contributing to the rise of thalassotherapy.
Thalassotherapy involves treatments in seawater pools, baths, showers, algae wraps, underwater massage, and contrast water therapy, aimed at promoting relaxation, improving blood flow, and aiding muscle recovery.
Thalassotherapy centers offer hydrotherapy pools with jets targeting different muscle groups, active pools with underwater exercise equipment, and pressurizing water treatments for rejuvenation.
Seawater contains a range of minerals and elements, including magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium chloride, and iodine, which can be absorbed through the skin during thalassotherapy treatments.
The magnesium content in seawater is believed to be particularly beneficial for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
Research supports the therapeutic benefits of thalassotherapy, such as treating skin conditions and aiding muscle recovery, although the health benefits are not definitively proven.
Cold water exposure, such as swimming in cold ocean water, is believed to improve organ function, hormone release, mood-regulating hormones and calorie burn.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq
Sources: Vogue, Business Insider, Well+Good, Condé Nast Traveler, Earth.com.