The chemical name for water is H2O, which represents the two hydrogen atoms that combine with one oxygen atom to make water molecules. Whether water is found as a liquid, gas vapor, or frozen into ice, it's essential for life. Each of our body’s cells contains 60-70 percent of this vital substance. And at any time, 70-71 percent of the earth consists of water. Pure water laden with natural minerals nourishes and vitalizes every cell within the human body.
Hydration and Dehydration
When our body has adequate water for its needs, we’re fully hydrated. Complete hydration is necessary for optimal health. When our body’s water content is insufficient we become dehydrated. Mild dehydration can cause muscle pain, irritability, confusion and headache whereas severe hydration can be fatal. Dehydration can occur if insufficient water is consumed and it’s aggravated by heat, exercise, aging, various medications, perspiration, fever, and a variety of other conditions and illnesses.
Rarely, extreme excesses of water can be fatal as other vital elements are diluted. This is seen, for example, in individuals who ingest ecstasy (MDMA), a drug that causes excessive thirst.
Hydrotherapy
Many cultures have recognized the healing benefits of water since ancient times. Japanese healing therapies are considered one of the oldest natural therapies. In hydrotherapy, the body or its parts are submerged in water, often mineral water rich in certain known elements. Benefits include a reduction in stress, muscle and joint pain, an increase in circulation, improvement in wound healing, and detoxification.
Through the skin, water enters into the blood circulation and supplies needed elements to tissue cells. The skin is smooth and soft after a hydrotherapy session. Hydrated skin is supple and reflects the glow of good health. In dehydration the skin appears dry and wrinkled. Changes seen in the body’s cells in hydration and dehydration are similar to those that visibly alter the skin.
Massage Therapy
Massages, facials, and other forms of bodywork can contribute to dehydration. Cellular toxins and waste materials move from the inside of cells (intracellular) and out into the surrounding blood (extracellular fluid). Because bodywork contributes to detoxification, the body’s cells are depleted of fluid. To prevent the effects of dehydration it’s important to drink at least 8 hours of water or other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids. Both caffeine and alcohol contribute to dehydration.
Mineral Water
From ancient times, spa towns have emerged around natural mineral springs. Throughout the world, historical spas such as the Roman baths and Baden Baden have attracted visitors from both near and far because of their healing properties. Healing stems from both hydrotherapy procedures and drinking the mineral water endemic to that region. Certain minerals, such as sulfur, are known to help improve skin conditions and joint pain.
When visiting spas located on the site of natural springs it’s important to soak in the healing thermal springs and drink the tapped mineral water. Whether you’re visiting the many natural springs in Colorado or the ancient spas of Europe make the healing potential of water work for you. Regardless of the type of spa procedure you have scheduled, be sure you’re reaping all available benefits by drinking ample water.
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