Today's advanced machines and medication have allowed us to improve our physical health and wellness more effectively than ever before. But the use of nature's own medicine hasn't gone out of style. Located in one of the world’s most geographically and climatically diverse areas, Israel boasts special natural features that aid in the promotion of physical wellness. Most notable among these features are the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee hot springs, which provide visitors to Israel with the opportunity for rejuvenation and relief from common ailments. Whether you make one of these areas the focal point of a trip to Israel or a one-day excursion, your body will thank you for the experience.
While many tourists visit the Dead Sea to experience the sensation of effortless floating, the Dead Sea region is also renowned for its therapeutic properties. The Sea contains an unusually high concentration of salt and minerals—the reason why it cannot sustain life and also why people float so easily in its water. The minerals in the water include potassium and bromide, which have relaxing and mood-elevating effects; and calcium and magnesium, which have healing effects on the body. Besides being present in the water and mud, high levels of bromide are found in the air of the Dead Sea region, contributing to a feeling of relaxation when traveling in the area.
Most people are familiar with the pictures of visitors to the Dead Sea covered from head to toe in black mud. Indeed, no trip to the Dead Sea is complete without taking the time to visit one of the area's beaches or spas to rub some mud on your skin. The mud is particularly helpful for those with arthritis and joint pain because it dilates blood vessels and improves blood flow. It also renews skin cells and strengthens hair roots.
The Dead Sea area is the most healing place for the treatment of skin ailments, specifically psoriasis. Effective treatment for psoriasis requires direct prolonged exposure the sun, but such exposure is normally dangerous due to ultraviolet rays. The Dead Sea's low elevation and the water vapor in the surrounding air serve to filter the sunlight and reduce the level of harmful UV rays. Therefore, psoriasis sufferers can safely sit out in the sun for many hours at a time. Psoriasis patients from around the world travel to the Dead Sea for treatment. The treatment period is shorter than conventional treatments (4 weeks as compared to 3 months) and has no side effects. Studies have also shown that treatment at the Dead Sea provides psoriasis sufferers with the longest remission period of any treatment for the condition.
Although the Dead Sea is the most well-known site in Israel for treating one's body and mind, you can also find hot spring mineral baths in the Sea of Galilee area. There are two sites in the region with natural springs—Khamat Gader in the southern Golan Heights and Khamei Tiveriya in Tiberias. Like the water of the Dead Sea, the springs' water is rich in minerals that improve skin and joint health. During the Roman Empire's rule in the region, these springs were popular relaxation sites for members of the emperor's entourage.
Besides the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee's hot springs, Israel is home to dozens of spas located throughout the country. It is also a great destination for anyone looking to be active and get some exercise on vacation—from hiking to cycling to swimming and any other activity one can think of. So take a break from the elliptical machines and the dietary supplements, and get out into nature. Mother Nature's medicine is still top-notch, and there is no better place to experience it than in the "cradle of civilization"—Israel.
For more information about Israel travel visit www.goisrael.com.
