Since 2009, the benefits of spending time in the unique microclimate found in salt rooms, salt mines or salt caves are slowly becoming recognized by Neapolitans, thanks to The Salt Cave, in Naples.

“I’m pleased at how local residents have embraced halotherapy and speleotherapy, which were rediscovered in Eastern Europe during the 19th century when a Polish physician noted that salt miners seldom had respiratory diseases,” remarks owner Andrea Geresdi. “This therapy is now prescribed by physicians and therapists in Europe to improve their patients’ symptoms of asthma and bronchitis, as well as insomnia and chronic ear-nose-throat conditions such as allergies and sinusitis. Additionally, it has been used to help improve dermatological disorders, such as acne, neurodermatitis and psoriasis. I personally believe it is an excellent tool for detoxifying the body.”

The Salt Cave’s 3,800 square feet of space contains a one-of-a-kind, 625-square-foot salt cave created by Geresdi and her family. The floor, walls and ceiling of the cave are covered with fine, pink crystal salt mined from the Himalayan Mountains. Inside, visitors experience a microclimate that replicates exactly what is found within natural underground salt caves; 40 to 50 percent humidity, a temperature of 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and an aerosol of salt particles ranging from one to five micrometers in diameter.

During a 45-minute session in the cave, clients sit in relaxed positions on comfortable chairs and listen to calming music while the salt aerosol emerges from the Iiris Automatic Digital Generator, a relatively recent technology.

The remaining space at The Salt Cave is designated for private therapy rooms, yoga and sacred geometry classes, crystal bowl meditations, energy and bodywork sessions and lectures and seminars.

Location: Heritage Court, 4962 Tamiami Trail N, Naples. For more information, call 239-403-9170, email [email protected] or visit SaltCave.us.