Hot stone bath is a Bhutanese wellness ritual that heals joint pains (and even your soul).
Many believe that the ritual is a mix of Tibetan Kum Nye medicine and Indian Ayurveda.
The stones release their minerals and the leaves in the water release their essential oils in the traditional DOTSHO or Bhutanese hot tub.
Herbs/Minerals Used in the Bath
The herb used is called khempa, or artemisia, which is a natural analgesic and muscle relaxant. These are added to the water in a wooden hot tub. Mineral-rich stones from the riverbeds are heated on a fire for four to five hours and immersed into the water.
When they hit the water, they crack and release minerals. Both these natural components work together to relieve muscle pain, travel sickness and muscle- and bone-related ailments like arthritis, spondylitis, joint pain and stomach sickness.
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Little farms in the mountains have their hot tubs in sheds in their backyards; luxury hotels offer these treatments in spa rooms with spectacular views of nature.
For an authentic experience, look for a wooden tub—cedar is recommended because of its antiseptic properties.
You may find yourself dozing off during the bath, but that’s the whole point of the therapy.
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- Manda Snana, 180 minutes, Taj Tashi, Thimphu
- Hot Stone Bath and 60-minute Facial, Amankora Gangtey
- Hot Stone Bath and 60-minute COMO Shambhala Massage, Uma by COMO, Paro
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