Have you ever wanted to try a sand bath? And no not the one meant for your hamster or playing in your sand pit. This is a human sand bath, a traditional treatment where you are buried in the hot sand of the Egyptian Desert. This sounds strange, right? However, this practice is associated with countless health and wellness benefits.
This does not sound like the type of activity you want to do in the desert, especially in the blistering heat. Yet it is extremely beneficial for your mental and physical well-being. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and Egypt is renowned for it.
A sand bath is a thermal treatment during which your body is covered in hot sand. It uses seawater and is generally recommended in the treatment of rheumatic disorders. Let’s find out more about the history of sand baths, their benefits, and where to experience them.
History of Sand Baths
Sand bathing is a traditional treatment originating in Egypt and developed by the Berbers. The Berbers are an ethnic group indigenous to the Maghreb group of North Africa. They developed this treatment in an isolated settlement near Dakrour Mountain. It is about 50km from the Libyan border and 560km from Cairo. For centuries, Egyptians have used this treatment because of its many benefits. 
Benefits of Sand Baths
As peculiar as sand baths may sound, the benefits are insurmountable. The sand is extremely hot because it is in the desert. However, the hot sand is what makes this process so beneficial. The heat combined with the sand acts as a detoxifying agent and an immunity booster. It improves blood circulation, fertility, heart function and cholesterol levels. Ultimately, sand baths improve your overall health. Locals claim that the dry sand can cure medical conditions like joint pain, rheumatism, impotence and infertility.
Sand baths also help with skin problems and obesity. Sand is alkaline and extracts acid out of the body, restoring the PH balance. These baths focus on holistic health by considering your physical and mental health. Furthermore, sand baths offer a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Giving you peace of mind and serenity. To summarise, sand baths act as a natural therapy, curing numerous medical conditions.
How Sand Baths are Done
You start by meeting with a doctor in a tent. This is to make sure your blood pressure is normal and that you don’t have a heart condition. Thereafter, you remove your clothes and put clean towels on. Shortly following that, you are escorted to a hole in the sand that has been dug out for you. I know, sounds kind of scary, right? After that, you are buried from neck to toe. Rest in peace (just kidding). While in the sand, your face is protected from the sun using a blanket. You stay in the sand bath for about 10-15 minutes. Feeling intense heat from the sand and desert sun. This is to reap all the benefits.
Once you are unearthed you will be given thick clothes to wear and a warm drink. You are then escorted to a tent to check your blood pressure again. This treatment is recommended to be done over 3-5 days to reap all the benefits. Trained health professionals lead the process to ensure everyone’s safety. Remember to rest and relax once the process is complete.
Where To Do Sand Baths
The Siwa Oasis is an urban oasis in Egypt. It is between the Qattara Depression and the Great Sand Sea in the western desert. The oasis is in a deep depression that reaches about 19m below sea level. Why not take part in a sand bath in Gabal Dakrour? It is a popular Egypt sand bath destination located in Dakrour Mountain, Siwa. Are you ready for this wellness experience? If so, book your session at Siwa Sand Baths.
Parting Words
If you want a mental and physical detox while in a desert paradise then this is for you. For a wonderful and unique experience, be sure to make your way to Siwa in Egypt. It’s definitely out of this world. The sand bath will help you to relax and feel rejuvenated afterwards. However, if you’re feeling for something different that involves sand, check out some of the secret beaches in Australia.
Psychology tip: sand bathing restores calm within the body.
