However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. The Japanese have sought healing in their volcanic hot springs, or onsen, for thousands of years.
What it does: : Nine types of onsen water are recognized as having proven medical benefits. A high concentration of sulfur is believed to help rheumatism; alkaline waters treat arthritis. Where to find it: : In the shadow of Mount Yufu-dake, Ryokan Kamenoi Besso has 15 traditional Japanese houses and 6 Western-style rooms set amid the trees and springs ; onsen-academy. Early Hawaiians believed that disease resulted from spiritual disharmony. Practitioners of the healing tradition lomilomi use prayer and massage to rebalance energy.
What to expect: A prayer by the practitioner to diagnose energy blockages, followed by a massage. What it does: : Lomilomi is believed to improve circulation, balance the mind and emotions, and promote healing and the elimination of waste. Where to find it: : The Big Island's Fairmont Orchid offers lomilomi treatments based on traditional methods.
The resort is set among five mountains held sacred in Hawaii ; fairmont. Mayan medicine treatments attempt to balance the body's ch'ulel, or "life force. What to expect: Sasil-tun, a hot jade-stone massage, and zumpul-che, a sweat bath in a sacred cave. What it does: : The jade and heat are believed to balance energy and boost kidney function.
At more than 1, feet below sea level, the Dead Sea has been a healing retreat since the times of King David. What to expect: A mud pack and sulfur-spring soak followed by a float in the salt- and mineral-rich waters.
