Salt therapyHalotherapy: what happens when you breathe salt
Everything about salt therapy at Lavana Zen: how salt aerosol works, who it helps, what a session looks like and when to talk to a doctor first.
A little history
From salt mines to the modern salt cave
In the 19th century the Polish physician Feliks Boczkowski noticed that miners in the Wieliczka salt mine hardly ever suffered from respiratory diseases. In 1843 he opened the first salt sanatorium there and laid the foundation for the method we now call halotherapy (from the Greek halos – salt).
A modern salt cave brings the mine's microclimate into town: walls of natural salt, a constant temperature and a halogenerator releasing a fine salt aerosol into the air.
How it works
Four things that make a salt cave a salt cave
Salt microparticles
The halogenerator grinds pure salt into particles of 1–5 micrometres that travel deep into the airways.
Dry aerosol
Unlike inhaling salt water, the air is dry – salt binds moisture, thins mucus and has a mild anti-inflammatory effect.
Stable climate
A temperature of around 20–22 °C and low humidity keep the salt active throughout the session.
Calm and light
The soft glow of salt lamps and the silence trigger the body's relaxation response – breathing slows and deepens.
Who it helps
Who salt therapy is suitable for
Breathing
- asthma and chronic bronchitis
- allergic rhinitis, hay fever
- sinusitis
- frequent upper respiratory infections
- lingering cough after illness
Skin
- atopic eczema
- psoriasis
- acne and oily skin
- dry, irritated skin
Immunity & recovery
- prevention during flu season
- athletes and active people
- smokers and ex-smokers
- fatigue and exhaustion
Mind & sleep
- stress and inner tension
- trouble falling asleep
- the need to switch off and quiet down
The session
What 45 minutes in the cave look like
Arrival
Arrive about 10 minutes early. Leave your shoes and coat outside and switch your phone to silent.
Settling in
Pick a lounger and wrap up in a blanket. We dim the lights and play calm music.
Breathing
Breathe naturally – through the nose and mouth. There is no need to breathe deeply, the salt does the work.
Afterwards
Have a glass of water. If you want the salt to work on your skin, wait an hour or two before showering.
Recommended course
How often to come
Relax and try it out
A single visit to unwind, after a demanding week or as prevention.
A course
For respiratory and skin complaints we recommend 2–3 sessions a week for 4–6 weeks.
Maintenance
After a course, an occasional visit is enough to keep the effect.
Important
When a session is not suitable
Salt therapy is gentle, but in some situations you should consult a doctor first or postpone your visit:
- acute infectious diseases with fever
- active tuberculosis
- severe heart failure and uncontrolled hypertension
- cancer under active treatment
- bleeding disorders and coughing up blood
- hyperthyroidism
- pregnancy – after consulting your doctor
- claustrophobia
Salt therapy is a complementary relaxation method and does not replace medical care. If you have a health condition, please consult your doctor.
Experience the salt cave for yourself
Your first session will show you more than any article.