Getting hygge with it
Whether you prefer a luxurious day spa experience or a more intimate boutique-style setting, Toowoomba offers multiple options to choose from when it comes to pampering yourself in a hygge-inspired way. Just sit back, relax and let the health begin.
Photography: Formed Visuals @ East Spaces
Published 13 April 2023
Written by Elyssa Kirby
No, we haven't misspelled a Will Smith song. Hygge (correctly pronounced hoo-ga) is a Danish lifestyle that speaks to taking time away from the daily rush to relax and enjoy life's quieter pleasures.
There's a reason why the Scandinavians consistently rank as the happiest in the world, and hygge is a significant part of that reason. It's all about embracing a slower pace, finding joy in the simple things in life, and unwinding either alone or with close friends and family.
While self-care and mindfulness have been buzzwords the last decade, hygge speaks more about an entire lifestyle shift. It's about creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere that allows you to feel rejuvenated and at peace with yourself. And what better way to practice hygge than to put a spa date on your to-do list?
In a world that often feels chaotic and stressful, incorporating hygge into your lifestyle can be a game-changer. So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath, embrace the cozy comforts of hygge, and treat yourself to a relaxing spa day in Toowoomba. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you.
SAUNAS
Saunas conjure up memories of holidaying at the coast and trying out the apartment's sauna hut which would instantly take your breath away, produce a thick bead of sweat and send us running into the resort pool after a couple of minutes.
These days, infrared saunas have taken over the traditional sauna and are much less taxing on the body but have the same, if not more, health benefits!
Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you, which in turn warms your core body temperature, infrared saunas use light to heat your body from the inside creating thermal energy- meaning the air around you isn't as hot (between 45- 57 degrees rather than up to 85 degrees) but can actually create higher levels of detoxifying perspiration for a more extended period of time.
In terms of benefits, infrared saunas have it all - promoting better sleep, detoxifying, relieving sore muscles, reducing fatigue and increasing circulation. Studies have also shown that infrared saunas can actually help lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and optimise the production and reception of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin (our natural antidepressants).
Tips for first-timers: drink plenty of water before, during and after your sauna. Some sauna rooms recommend going nude; others require swimwear. Take regular breaks if you need to.
ICE BATHS
Immersion in cold water has been around for millennia - the Ancient Greeks and Romans both engaged in Thermalism - a practice of using water at various temperatures to ease muscle fatigue and joint pain.
The idea of submerging yourself into a 10-15°C body of water may just send shivers down your spine (keep in mind the body's natural temperature is 37.2°C). Still, enthusiasts cite benefits ranging from soothing sore muscles and general muscle recovery, relieving stress, decreasing inflammation, increasing sleep quality and higher energy levels.
Studies have also confirmed similar results, with some also suggesting a link between cold acclimation and weight loss and indications that ice baths help stimulate the Vagus nerve and, in turn, provide a feeling of calm and inner peace (we know one Editor who cheekily suggests that might just be when you hop out). That being said, the Scandinavians, and increasingly the world of professional sport and health enthusiasts, have embraced and come to swear by it.
Tips for first-timers: Before we all plunge into the freezing depths, we should know exactly what we're letting ourselves in for. It's very cold in there. The best way to start your ice bath practice is to keep your immersions short and work up towards longer periods. Breathing exercises such as alternate nostril breathing help control the initial shock and regulate your nervous system.
FLOAT THERAPY
If you find yourself constantly distracted while trying to practice mindfulness, then Float therapy might be for you.
Float therapy was initially first developed in 1954 to gauge the effects of sensory deprivation on the brain. Since then, the design has been finetuned to the modern-day float tanks to give your mind and body space to shut off from external stimulation. Most sessions are an hour duration. The float baths are filled with up to 400kg of Epsom Salts (that's 30% saltier than the Dead Sea).
Float therapy has been toted as stimulating the release of endorphins, relieving stress, promoting better sleep, and assisting with muscle recovery.
Tips for first-timers: you can wear a swimsuit if you prefer, however being au naturale is suggested. Lights and gentle music are optional, but for the full experience, it is recommended to be alone with your thoughts.
WHERE TO GO
East Spaces: Infrared sauna, Massage
Kalm Springs: Infrared sauna, Float therapy, Ice bath
Divinity spa: Massage, Float pods, Infrared Sauna
City Cave: Float baths, Infrared sauna, Massage
Toowoomba Salt Caves: Massage, Salt therapy
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