Out with the old, in with the new

Boulder’s alternative health treatments and therapies gain popularity

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Would you call a salt therapist for a chronic sinus infection or use IV therapy to treat an autoimmune disease? No matter how “out there” alternative therapies may seem, many are gaining popularity as a way to complement traditional medicine — and for good reason. Most alternative therapies have been healing people for centuries and have a long list of health benefits. From healing respiratory issues to treating anxiety, many people find long-term healing from holistic treatments. In fact, according to a 2017  Pew Research study, about half of Americans report having tried some form of alternative medicine, such as herbal remedies or acupuncture.  

Interested in giving alternative medicine a try? If you’re looking to get creative with your health care, Boulder is home to a host of nontraditional therapies. We’ve compiled a list of some of the city’s most popular healing spaces to help you get the most out of life. 

Salt Therapy

During the mid-1800s, a Polish doctor discovered that salt mine workers suffered fewer respiratory issues than the general population. Upon this discovery, salt mines all over Eastern Europe were used as medical “resorts” for individuals struggling with respiratory conditions. Today, salt therapy is used to treat all kinds of illnesses, including chronic sinusitis, asthma, and hay fever. 

A typical salt therapy session is 45 minutes and involves sitting in a room while a halogenerator disperses microscopic salt particles into the room. Once these particles are inhaled, they cause your mucous membranes to thin and liquefy, allowing you to expel debris and pathogens. Struggling with chronic sinus infections or respiratory issues? Check out Salt of the Earth to reap the benefits of salt therapy. 

Salt of the Earth, 4520 N. Broadway, Unit D, Boulder, 303-435-1039. 

Salt of the Earth.

Flotation Therapy

Commonly referred to as a sensory deprivation tank, flotation therapy has gained popularity for its ability to provide deep relaxation, pain relief and mood improvement. Flotation tanks are large, enclosed water baths that are typically 10 inches deep with approximately 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt dissolved into the tub. The Epsom salts create a buoyant effect, allowing you to float effortlessly in a neutral environment. Isolate, one of Boulder’s flotation therapy businesses, offers 90- and 60-minute floating sessions. If you’re looking for a truly rejuvenating, unique experience, a flotation therapy session is a great option.

Isolate, 643 S. Broadway, Boulder, 720-256-6518.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy was first used by ancient civilizations to rejuvenate cells and promote healing. Today, whole-body cryotherapy treatments are used to treat a variety of conditions, including tendonitis, athletic injuries and joint pain. These treatments involve sitting or standing in a “cryo chamber” for three minutes. During this time, your body is exposed to subzero temperatures, which can provide pain relief and increase muscle stamina. For optimal results, patients wear minimal clothes, including dry thermal socks, thermal gloves, cryo boots and undergarments. Struggling from chronic inflammation or can’t seem to kick an injury? Check out CryoFusion to give cryotherapy a try.

CryoFusion, 2408 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 720-585-8115.

IV Therapy

The days where IV therapy was reserved for hospital patients have come and gone. Today, IV therapy has gained immense popularity as a delivery mechanism of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to the bloodstream. Vitamin infusions into the bloodstream can bypass the digestive system, increasing and optimizing absorption. IV therapy can provide a wide range of health benefits such as increasing energy levels, treating nutrient deficiencies, and cleansing the body of free radicals. Hydrate IV Bar in Boulder is known for its a la carte selection of vitamin cocktails. Whether you’re looking to target anti-aging or your immune system, their eclectic menu of nutrient concoctions offers solutions for a variety of health concerns.

Hydrate IV Bar, 1655 Folsom St., Boulder, 720-410-2163.