18 Aug Thalassotherapy in Gallura

Thalassotherapy is a widespread practice in Sardinia and several areas of Gallura. It is a specific type of hydrotherapy which uses seawater and all related elements, such as algae, minerals, sand, and mud extracted from the sea, for personal care. The term ‘thalassotherapy’ derives from the union of two ancient Greek words:

‘thalassa’, which means ‘sea’, and ‘therapeia’, which means ‘care’. . . . . The origins of this practice date back to Ancient Egypt. It was then resumed by the Phoenicians, the Greeks, and the Romans: thermal and sea baths provided them with a chance to regenerate, stimulate, relax, and remineralise their bodies.

Generally speaking, according to the best studies available, thalassotherapy is truly beneficial for the whole human body, as it facilitates toxin elimination, boosts the immune system, stimulates lymphatic circulation, produces a relaxing and invigorating effect on muscles, and improves skin quality and appearance.

As for weight-loss programmes, the use of algae and mud wraps offers huge benefits. The advantage of thalassotherapy over hydrotherapy is that practising physical activity in seawater provides the additional benefit of absorbing the minerals dissolved in saltwater, unlike what happens in freshwater.