guests . As soothing as water is to some , it can be a source of fear for others .

“ I have found that many guests are reluctant to try water therapy for fear of the unknown ,” says Wati . “ They do not know what to expect . The best way to alleviate this is to provide as much information as possible to first-time guests on what to expect during the treatment , the benefits of the treatment , and how best to enjoy the experience . It is also important that the therapist checks with the guest throughout the treatment to ensure their comfort .”

According to Dr . Felipe , it shouldn ’ t be hard convincing guests of the many benefits of water therapies .

“ There are so many benefits . Water therapy boosts the immune systems , stimulates the metabolism , circulatory and nervous system , improves physical conditioning and invigorates the whole body . It can also improve local inflammatory processes and systems and promote physical and mental wellbeing ,” he says . “ The use of water for therapeutic reasons is probably as old as humanity and is considered one of the basic methods of alternative medicine .” n

Adding water treatments to an already comprehensive spa menu can be easy when coordinating them with services that coincide with the rejuvenating benefits of water .

“ Pairing flotation therapy with meditation and yoga can continue the mental and physical health benefits even after drying off .”

ALEJANDRO ORTIZ , Spa Director Remède Spa The St . Regis Punta Mita , Nayarit , Mexico

“ A combination of massage and scrub is ideal to accompany the water therapy for maximized benefits .”

KANRUETHAI ROONGRUANG , Vice President and Executive Director Banyan Tree Resorts and Spas ( Thailand ) Co . Ltd ., Phuket , Thailand

“ Water therapies can easily be taken home with special extremities baths : immersing arms or legs in cold water after exercising can be extremely beneficial .”

DR . LUIS FELIPE MENEZES MARTINS , Medical Director Kurotel Longevity Medical Center and Spa , Gramado , Brazil

“ We offer Hammam ( Turkish steam room ) with eucalyptus as part of our amenities . We use milk proteins and essential oils in our hydrotherapy treatments as well as nourishing lemongrass , espresso and other natural scrubs rich in antioxidant properties for body exfoliation with our vichy therapy .”

LIDYA WATI , Founder and President Spa Réveil , Austin , Texas

March / April 2017 ■ PULSE 47