The Romans already bathed in Baden-Baden. Warm spring water, mud and rest are the oldest form of health holiday, and it has stayed surprisingly modern. Here you find out what makes a thermal cure, who it suits and how best to use the days.
- Thermal water leaves the spring at 20 °C or more and often contains minerals.
- Warmth, buoyancy and rest relieve back, joints and nerves.
- A classic cure lasts three weeks; even a few days do noticeable good.
What a thermal cure is
On a thermal cure, baths in warm spring water are at the centre. In Germany water counts as thermal water if it leaves the spring at 20 degrees Celsius or more. Many towns with such springs carry the word Bad in their name, a title for recognised healing spas.
Local treatments often come on top: peat mud or fango, which store heat for a long time, massages, exercise in the water and plenty of rest.
What warmth, water and mud do
Warm water relaxes the muscles, and buoyancy carries a large part of the body's weight. Many people with back or joint complaints move more easily in water than on land. Mud and fango release heat slowly and deeply.
Depending on the spring, the water contains minerals such as sulphur, brine or carbon dioxide. How well the effect of each mineral is researched varies. But warmth and rest work for almost everyone.
Warmth is the simplest medicine there is, and the most pleasant.
How to use the days well
More is not better. Hot water strains the circulation, so bathe briefly and regularly rather than for hours. Afterwards rest for half an hour, drink plenty and go to bed early.
- Bathe once a day for 20 to 30 minutes
- Rest afterwards, do not rush on
- Drink plenty of water
- Exercise in the water instead of training on land
Who a thermal cure suits
A thermal cure suits anyone with their back, joints or stress in mind who does not want a strict diet. You eat normally, move gently and recover. That also makes it pleasant for couples where only one wants a cure.
It is less suitable with serious cardiovascular disease, open wounds or vein problems. In that case talk to your doctor first.
Cure, weekend or something in between?
A classic, medically prescribed cure lasts about three weeks. At a hotel the thermal cure is usually shorter: three to seven nights with baths, treatments and good food. If you like, combine it with a check-up or a fasting week.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a thermal cure last?
Classically three weeks. For noticeable rest, three to seven nights at a hotel are often enough.
Does health insurance pay for a thermal cure?
A medically prescribed cure can be subsidised under certain conditions, depending on your country and insurer. A hotel stay with thermal baths is usually private.
What is the difference between peat mud and fango?
Peat mud is a natural material from plant remains; fango is a mineral mud of volcanic origin. Both store heat for a long time and release it slowly to the body.
Terms briefly explained
Luxly does not provide medical advice. Whether a programme suits you is something to discuss with the house's medical team or your own doctor.
