Hydrothermal facilities: essential services in the age of pandemics. Issue 1 (2nd January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cohen, Marc
• Is Part Of: International journal of spa and wellness. Volume 3:Issue 1(2020)
• Page Start: 60
• Page End: 65
• Publication Date: 2020-01-02
• Subjects: Hydrothermal therapies -- sauna -- balneology -- public health -- COVID-19 -- bathing; Health resorts -- Periodicals; Health resorts -- Management -- Periodicals; Well-being -- Periodicals; Self-care, Health -- Periodicals; Lifestyles -- Health aspects -- Periodicals; 613.12205
• DOI: 10.1080/24721735.2020.1838144
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2472-1735

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This paper provides evidence to support the classification of hydro-thermal facilities as "essential services" in an age of pandemics. Hydro-thermal therapies such as hot baths, cold plunges, saunas, steam baths and mud-wraps boost the immune system's ability to resist viral infections, reduce the risk of chronic disease and improve public health. Hydro-thermal therapies also confer psychological benefits that include improved sleep, reduced stress enhanced social connections and connection with nature. Some hydrothermal facilities such as saunas also operate at temperatures that destroy viruses and therefore provide safe havens during a pandemic. Common-sense safety principles allow hydrothermal therapies to be used safely and education of operators about infection control, disinfection, sanitation and water quality can ensure the safe re-integrating of hydro-thermal facilities into society. Treating hydro-thermal therapies as essential services will bolster public health and counter the many detrimental physical, mental, social and economic impacts of the current pandemic. Ultimately, governments and communities need to support optimal immune function and work toward the long-term goal of building community resilience.