Call it a Turkish bath, hammam, banya, sweat lodge, swvitz, or Jacuzzi, all are variations on a theme—a safe, sacred space to experience the healing properties of heat and cold, aka thermal therapy.

In ancient times, bathing was a ritualized activity and even an art, including hot water, hot vapors, cold plunges, body kneading, and aromatic oils.

Cultures throughout time have had a deep respect for the healing available through thermal therapy, and at the Magical Forest Healing Retreat, in our cozy Hot Tub and refreshing Cold Plunge, it’s at your finger tips too.

Dedicating part of the day to relaxation and self-pampering is a beautiful gift

for your body and soul.

The main attraction of thermal therapy is that intentionally switching between hot and cold temperatures puts your mind into a quiet, peaceful state. 

This is because in order to cope with the temperatures, you give your full attention to the experience. It feels like nothing but the present moment exists, and you feel at peace. Ahhhhh…..

Heat is able to literally melt tension in your muscles, and the key to handling the heat is also the key to relaxation—breathing. Deep breathing is rejuvenating, and calming, and benefits your mood, metabolism, energy and more.

And remember, don’t skip the cold!

By going from hot to cold, and cold to neutral, you will experience a strong rush of sensation.

Don’t let yourself overheat. Instead go back and forth between hot and cold. In the heat, your blood vessels expand, and in the cold, they contract, and this back and forth action of your bloods vessels is extremely invigorating and detoxifying.

Find your own pace as you do this, and experiment with your ability to experience sensations in your body. Your ability will grow over time, but never force yourself.

Going back and forth 3 times between hot and cold and ending on cold is one nice way to do it. Take as much time as you want with the hot and cold baths.

Health benefits: