Holistic 'salt cave' treatment comes to Cleveland

WOODMERE -- What's more relaxing than breathing in fresh salt air from the ocean? Or oxygen-rich air from the mountains? No need to hit the highway or book a flight. You can get the experience right here in Cleveland.

Europa International Salon and Spa just opened a "salt cave" a few weeks ago. It simulates Himalayan salt caves that have existed for millions of years.

"We tried to imitate Mother Nature, which is very difficult. What you see are real crystals, built on the wall, and it's over 3,000 pounds of Himalayan salt on the wall," explains Gregry Shteyngarts. 

Natural Himalayan crystal salt has long been thought to contain anti-inflammatory properties that are soothing and healing for those with allergies, colds, asthma and other conditions.

Salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, is an ancient form of healing. Ancient Roman aristocrats were said to take salt therapy, by inhaling the steam of boiling salt water from the Dead Sea.

Halotherapy is now a common holistic practice in many Eastern European spas. Even some hospitals in Poland offer it to their patients.

The owners of Europa Salon and Spa make no claims medical claims about their salt cave, but say it is a wonderful relaxation chamber where clients can come to alleviate stress caused by job stress and an uncertain economy.

"Some people can not afford to go on vacations right now," explains owner Tanya Sigal. But she believes they can afford the $15 dollars for a 45-minute session in the cave.

The response so far, according to Tanya, has been varied, but positive. She says after a few minutes in the room, some clients have started laughing. Others have cried.

Sigal attributes it to a release of "bad energy," as clients experience a guided visual and audio tour as they relax in the room.

"I had somebody here sleeping for 20 minutes. And she got up, and said she had the feeling as if she slept for eight hours, completely relaxed, pink cheeks and healthy," Tanya said.

This manmade salt cave is only the third in the United States, and it's the first in Ohio.

An ozone purification system pumps fresh air throughout the room, as light therapy helps calm or energize clients.

Salt therapy is a holistic treatment and, although centuries old, its healing claims have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Click here to learn more about Europa International Salon and Spa and their "Taste of Himalayan Salt Cave."