Hydrotherapy is a form of treatment using water temperature and pressure to ameliorate physical ailments. Hydro therapies using mineral water, sea water and water aerobics are designed to decrease discomfort while relaxing the mind and body.

Ancient civilizations including the Egyptians, the Romans, the Greeks and the Japanese used hydrotherapy or “water healing” long before the practice became a novel spa treatment.

Egyptians believed that bathing in water with choice oils and flowers promoted wellness. The Romans built public bath houses and the Greek philosopher Hippocrates prescribed baths in spring water to treat bouts of illness.

Water healing was also used to treat addictions such as alcoholism. Interestingly, Bill Wilson founder of Alcoholics Anonymous was allegedly treated for alcoholism with hydrotherapy in the early 1930’s.

Hydrotherapy became increasingly popular in 19^th century Europe because of its cost-effectiveness in curing common maladies. In fact, the term hydrotherapy fuses the words “the hydro and the home” because it was a cheap way of treating sickness from one’s home.

What was once a cost-effective method of healing is now a less economically feasible recourse. Hydrotherapy is an alternative medical treatment for some and a luxurious amenity for others who can afford it.

Balneotherapy, Thalassotherapy and Aquatic therapy are different types of hydrotherapy that utilize the healing properties of water in medical and spa settings.

Balneotherapy was coined after the Latin word “balneium” which means bath. Balneotherapy can ameliorate symptoms of arthritis and fibromyalgia. Individuals who suffer from circulatory, muscular and skeletal discomfort should consult a physician about balneotherapy as a pain management option.

If seeking anti-aging secrets, Thalassotherapy is a method to consider. The word Thalassotherapy derives from the Greek word “thalassa” meaning water and “therapeia” meaning therapy. This hydro therapeutic method evolved from beliefs about the curative properties of sea water.

Increasing blood circulation is a chief aim of Thalassotherapy. The human body depletes itself of essential vitamins and minerals as a result of chronic stress, unhealthy eating habits and exposure to environmental pollutants. Balneotherapy effectively restores the body of key nutrients for a complete recovery from stress and strain.

The secret to this seawater therapy lies in the similar chemical composition of the body and sea water. Immersion in seawater yields positive amounts of magnesium, potassium and calcium that the skin immediately absorbs.

Ultimately, balneotherapy serves to tone and moisturize skin after a detoxification and replenishment process. After a balneotherapy session, one will feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

Fancy spas and resorts offer weekend packages servicing guests with luxurious hydro therapies to relax and rejuvenate them. Hot springs and mineral spas provide extensive hydrotherapy amenities that attract guests from countries around the world.  

Aquatic therapy is a form of hydrotherapy that is strictly used for medicinal purposes versus recreational ones. Physical therapy regimens may include a supplemental aquatic element for a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. In aquatic therapy, exercise is less strenuous than land exercise. Aquatic therapy is only available by a medical referral.

The healing properties of water are recognized across time and cultures. From treating alcoholism to releasing stress and recovering from injury, the use of water in a rehabilitative context is still implemented.

The history of hydrotherapy is rich with roots of Hellenistic and Egyptian public figures bathing themselves to chase away the woe of illness. Types of hydrotherapy continuously evolve as discoveries are made about different water sources and their respective properties.

Water sustains and eases the pains of life. The pressure and warmth of water has a calming effect on the mind, body and soul.  Medical treatments address the physical symptoms of an ailment. Water therapies offer comprehensive treatment options for synergistic healing of the mind and body.

Photo above taken by Biliana Racocevik.