'Very Unhealthy Air Quality' and more recently, 'Hazardous Air Quality' is what I am told every time I check the weather app on my phone.
This alarming state of affairs has been a cause for grave concern for a few years now, making us reach for masks, home purifiers, ionisers and several other devices that somehow improve the air that we breath in. Respiratory disorders, allergies, asthma attacks are becoming increasingly common, especially if you live in and around the capital city of India.
'Prevention is better than cure' has been drilled into our minds since childhood and a simple ingredient that can help deal with the toxic environment we live in, is the humble salt.
Gargling with warm salt water as soon as you come home at the end of the day is a great practice to prevent throat infection. The salt water washes away harmful toxins and soothes the constant itch we feel in our throats because of the pollution.
Jal Neti, the yogic kriya of flushing out your sinuses with warm salt water is a great way to keep allergies and other breathing disorders at bay.
Another alternative form of treatment is Halotherapy or dry salt inhalation which not only promotes better breathing but also healthy skin and overall wellbeing.
Introducing the Himalayan Salt Cave
At Naad Wellness, we have recreated the microclimate of salt caves and our Himalayan Salt Caves are based on the principle that when salt is heated, it becomes drier and kinetically more active.
When these micro particles of super dry salt are inhaled into the respiratory system, they absorb and remove allergens, toxins and foreign substances in the lungs and the respiratory tract.
Additionally, since dry salt is highly absorbent, the micro particles can also permeate the epidermis and help balance the skin's pH and induce the reparative and regenerative process in the skin, thereby stimulating cell growth and microcirculation.
Who is it beneficial for?
Anyone can benefit from the Himalayan Salt Cave therapy since it is known to have mood and immune enhancing effects. However, we recommend this experience for those who suffer from asthma, allergies, bronchitis, sinus congestion, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema and acne.
Additionally, other noticeable effects are reduced stress, reduced headaches and better sleep patterns.
How does it work?
The Himalayan Salt Caves at Naad Wellness have been designed to have a calming effect and are accessorized by soft lighting, soothing music and comfortable lounge chairs.
Guests are invited to sit back and breathe deeply for 15-20 minutes. We encourage that this quiet time is dedicated to meditation, relaxation or simply doing nothing at all.
To make the most of the therapy, we suggest that you are in comfortable clothing (like the white kurta pyjamas we offer), leave your footwear outside, drink at least two glasses of water before entering and remain seated for the entire session.Additionally, verbal silence is strongly recommended and the use of cell phones or other electronic devices inside the salt cave are a complete no-no.
In conclusion, there is nothing better than the salt of the earth to heal your body, mind and soul!
Feel free to write to me on naturopathy.consultant@naadwellness.comif I can help with any questions that you may have on our Himalayan Salt Cave.
About the author: A graduate of S.D.M.College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences, Dr Deepthy's expertise includes Yoga, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, acupressure, reflexology and physiotherapy. She is also known for her empathetic ear and counselling skills. A firm believer in the healing powers of food, Dr Deepthy is responsible putting overseeing the diet of our resident guests and also helping them make lifestyle alterations when they check-out from the centre.