The spa break and why we take them

Ever since mankind discovered the first naturally occurring thermal spa there have been many reasons for people to use them. In historic times, hot water was often a luxury that only the wealthy could afford. So the idea that there would be natural hot water from the ground was instinctively very appealing. Imagine how good bathing in hot water must have felt after months or years of scrubbing with cold, especially in cold countries.

As well as for relaxation and cleanliness reasons, it was soon noted that many naturally occurring springs had healing qualities. Even if the water wasn’t that hot. People with skin conditions noticed how they cleared up after being in the water. Other people simply reported feeling better generally.

In an age before exact scientific methods were used, the reasons for this were often unclear but many people swore by spas. Science has now shown us exactly what it is about various spa waters that offer healing and wellness qualities, identifying specific minerals that can improve health.

One reason that many people use spas today that perhaps didn’t exist in the previous centuries is stress. This thoroughly modern condition has been caused by the fast pace of modern life and the responsibilities that come with it. We’re not suggesting that life in the past wasn’t hard, far from it, but the concept of stress itself is only very recent.

That’s one of the reasons that corporate spa breaks have become so popular in recent years. Many companies that value the well being of their employees know that they function better when relieved of stress and are in top condition for work. It’s amazing what a few days relaxing in a spa can do for even the most stressed employee. Keep them at their creative peak with a regular spa treatment.

Another modern reason for visiting the spa is to detox. We can all overdo it sometimes or find it hard to find the time to eat well. Combined with a busy life this can leave our metabolisms and bodies worn down and full of not-so-nice chemicals.

A spa break is a great way to release these chemicals and substances through the pours, cleaning our internal systems and restoring us to full health. Although, we reckon there were probably a few hard living Roman centurions who benefited from a detox spa as well.

Whatever the reason for visiting a spa, there is no doubt that it can boost your health, creativity and productivity. They knew it then and we know it now.