Excelsior Springs is now home to a unique wellness experience with the opening of The Zen Salt Den at Crown Hill Plaza. Offering salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, the business introduces a practice that has long been popular in the southern U.S. but is relatively new to this region.
Owner Melody Martin, born and raised in Excelsior Springs, returned to her hometown after living in southern Florida, where halotherapy is widely available. Inspired by the benefits she experienced and observed there, she is excited to bring the wellness trend to Excelsior Springs.
“I really believe in the health benefits that salt therapy brings to all people and am eager to share that with my hometown,” said Melody during the Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony hosted by the Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, October 4, 2024.
During the event, guests were given tours of the new facility, which features a main salt therapy room, a children’s salt therapy room, an infrared sauna, and a 4D massage chair. Salt therapy sessions, which last 45 minutes, begin on the hour, offering clients a chance to relax and experience the calming effects of the treatment.
Salt therapy works by utilizing dry salt particles to reduce inflammation, thin bronchial and nasal secretions, and improve drainage, according to the Salt Therapy Association. This can lead to relief from symptoms triggered by allergies, respiratory conditions, and sinus congestion. The natural properties of salt also help absorb swelling in the respiratory tract, opening airways and promoting easier breathing.
Children can also benefit from halotherapy, and The Zen Salt Den offers a dedicated children’s therapy room where parents or caregivers can accompany them during the session. “Children can benefit from salt therapy too,” Melody explained, “which is why we created a space just for them.”
Not only does The Zen Salt Den cater to human clients, but pets can also take part in the healing process. The facility features a salt therapy tent for pets, offering 10-minute sessions aimed at improving respiratory health in dogs and cats. Melody encourages pet owners to try the therapy if their furry companions suffer from respiratory issues.
Athletes can also find benefits in halotherapy, especially in dealing with airflow obstruction, respiratory illnesses, asthma, and allergies. The Salt Therapy Association highlights that regular exposure to salt therapy can help reduce airway inflammation and improve overall respiratory health.
The Zen Salt Den is open Wednesday through Sunday at 125 Crown Hill Road in Excelsior Springs. To learn more about halotherapy, visit their website at zensaltden.com or follow them on Facebook.
If you appreciate the value our local journalism brings to the community, please consider making a recurring contribution to the Excelsior Citizen!