**Full Disclosure: I received a 30 minute session and lunch at no cost to me. I am not a doctor and am not giving any medical advice. All opinions are my own.
I would not describe myself as a ‘spa person’. What does that even mean?! I guess I’m trying to say that I’m not one to book a massage or a day at the spa. That doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy those things but I’m fairly frugal and would rather save my money to do other things. However, when I was invited to San Antonio’s Salt Cave, I was intrigued. I didn’t have any idea what a Salt Cave was or why I would visit one so I decided I couldn’t turn it down.
About the Salt Cave at PureSol Spa –
The salt cave is a man-made, above ground cave, made out of 20 tons of salt. The purpose is to re-create a microclimate similar to the mine in Poland, which is home to the largest underground rehabilitation center in the world and known for its healing microclimate. We offer a 30-minute session for $20 and a 45-minute session for $25. Thirty minutes is the minimum time to give the body enough time to absorb the microelements and minerals in the salt.
The Salt Cave is filled with 22 tons of rock salt imported from Poland. The air temperature is right at 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Photo Credit: PureSol Spa
What Should I Expect?
- Make reservations – while walk-ins are available for adults, they are strongly recommended. Children must have an appointment.
- Expect to arrive at least 10 minutes before your appointment.
- The Salt Cave is quite chilly so wear pants and bring a sweater. They provide blankets but I was still cold!
- No shoes are allowed in the cave. Shoe covers are provided or you can bring extra white socks.
- You’ll be required to turn off your cell phone.
- You should expect to fall asleep in the chair! I brought a book and was told that I wouldn’t read it because I’d fall asleep. I was certain that wouldn’t happen, but it did.
- No food and drinks are allowed but allow time to visit the restaurant, Nineteen17, before you leave!
- You may experience a dry throat and increased coughing at the beginning. This is an absolutely natural part of the cleaning process of the respiratory system, during which the pollution, accumulated over time and released by salt, is expelled from even the deepest regions of the lungs.
- Most of all: You can expect an incredibly relaxing experience!
What’s the Value of Going to a Salt Cave?
Research has proven the therapeutic values of salt caves and their positive influence in the treatment of such ailments and diseases such as:
- Respiratory illnesses including asthma
- Chronic obstructive bronchitis
- Chronic inflammation of lungs and sinuses
- Emphysema
- Gastritis
- Allergies
- Stress Reduction
- and more!
Please Note: In case of overproduction of the hyperthyroidism, tuberculosis and claustrophobia, a doctor must be consulted. Pregnant women with asthma or other respiratory diseases could use this therapy without any harm to the child. Ask your doctor if you don’t feel comfortable.
How Much Does it Cost?
Pricing for the Salt Cave ranges from $10 to $25.
Photo Credit: PureSol Spa
About Nineteen17 Restaurant –
Nineteen17 features locally sourced ingredients, including their very own “house” herbs, vegetables and honey. Offerings will be regionally influenced with a broad spectrum and have significant relevance to today’s traveler as well as local guests with our pizza oven, rotisserie and grill.
After my refreshing nap at the Salt Cave, I was invited to have lunch at Nineteen17. I was starving so I jumped at the offer. I finally decided to order THE BURGER (an open-faced, char-grilled short rib brisket burger) with Rosemary Parmesan Tots, a Coca-Cola and water. It was the most amazing burger I think I’ve ever eaten!
How was my experience the Salt Cave at PureSol Spa?
The only difference I noticed after visiting the Salt Cave was extreme thirst. I can’t say I have any of the ailments that the Salt Cave is supposed to help with so I didn’t expect to feel any different. It was, however, the best 30 minute nap I’ve ever had and I felt very refreshed when the staff came in to wake me. For the price, I think the Salt Cave is worth a try. If it weren’t so far from my house, I would probably go once a month just for the nap!
Have you ever been to a Salt Cave?
Having suffered from asthma for years, I’ve really been curious about this. I wonder though if the coughing would be too much. Only one way to find out.