What is the treatment?
Hammam Therapy is also known as Turkish Bath. It is a traditional cleansing and relaxation treatment in which steam therapy is also involved. It originated in the Middle East, particularly Turkey and Morocco. Hammam Therapy includes steam baths, exfoliation, massage, and rinsing with warm and cool water. The main goal of Hammam Therapy is to deeply cleanse the skin, detoxify the body, and promote relaxation. The treatment usually takes place in a specially designed Hammam. They are usually made up of marble or stone surfaces and use warm steam to open the pores in the skin and release impurities.
Philosophy/Origin
Hammam Therapy originated in the Roman Empire, where public baths were a central part of the culture. The Ottomans later modified the Hammam and increased its popularity due to different benefits. It combines bathing, steam, and massage to help both the body and the mind. The ritualistic nature of Hammam Therapy promotes mindfulness and relaxation which makes it both a cleansing routine and a holistic care.
Physical Benefits
Mental/Emotional Benefits
Long-Term Wellness
Consistent Hammam sessions can help maintain overall body detoxification, reduce the risk of skin issues, and promote general health. The treatment can improve skin tone and texture which leads to long-term skin health benefits.
Ideal Audience
Individuals who enjoy a relaxing and deeply cleansing spa treatment usually go for hammam therapy. People who are interested in traditional and holistic wellness practices that benefit both body and mind can benefit from Hammam therapy. Skin problems like roughness, dryness, or clogged pores can also be treated with Hammam therapy.
Specific Conditions
The process of Hammam therapy is described below
Using the Steam Room
The Hammam experience starts with relaxing in a steam-filled room. The individual goes into the warm, steamy room and sits or lies on a stone surface. The steam helps open up the pores and prepares the body for deeper cleansing.
Using Black Soap
After 15 to 20 minutes in the steam room, a special olive-based black soap is applied to the whole body. This soap is full of antioxidants and has a creamy texture. It makes the skin soft and prepares it for exfoliation.
Exfoliation with Kessa Glove
The therapist uses a rough Kessa glove to scrub the body which helps to get rid of dead skin cells and impurities. This scrub increases blood circulation and promotes the detox process.
Rinsing and Cool Water Therapy
The individual is rinsed off with warm water to remove the black soap and dead skin. Sometimes, warm and cool water is used in combination to further improve the experience of each individual.
Using Ghassoul Clay or Body Mask
Ghassoul clay is a traditional mineral-rich clay mask that might be put on the body. This clay cleans and nourishes the skin and removes impurities.
Final Rinsing and Massage
The body is rinsed well, and a gentle massage with essential oils might be given to relax the muscles and moisturize the skin. The therapist might use a mix of kneading, stretching, and pressure techniques.
Relaxation and Cooling Down
After the massage, clients usually relax in a cool room to let their body temperature get back to normal. They might also be offered herbal tea to help them relax and to maximize the benefits of therapy.
What to Expect
In a Hammam Therapy session, people will experience a warm and comforting environment. The steam creates a deeply relaxing feeling. The exfoliation process may feel intense, but it is not painful and makes the skin soft. Individuals will feel lighter and fresher as the warm water washes away impurities and dead skin. The experience includes warm marble surfaces and steam which create a calm atmosphere.
Immediate Effects
Long-Term Effects
Regular Hammam sessions improve blood circulation and help the body naturally get rid of toxins. It improves the flow of lymph and strengthens the body’s immune system. These treatments also help to provide smooth skin for a longer time.
Before the treatment
It is recommended to consume an adequate amount of water to prevent dehydration in the steam room. It is advisable to have a light meal before the Hammam experience to prevent any discomfort during the session.
Aftercare
It is also important to rehydrate and apply a moisturizer to preserve the softness and elasticity of the skin. It is also recommended to gradually allow the body to cool down after the session to prevent any muscle tightness. It is advisable to avoid heavy or stressful activities immediately after the session.
Traditional Hammams can be found in Turkey, Morocco, and the Middle East which offers authentic Hammam experiences with the help of wellness platforms like Wellencia. Some holistic care practitioners offer modern versions of Hammam Therapy and perform traditional practices with modern wellness techniques.
