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New spa brings holistic halotherapy to Murrieta

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From crystalline structures in shades of pink that seem lit from within, to the legends of vast salt flats kept pristine for millennia on remote mountain peaks; there is plenty about Himalayan rock salt to stir the imagination and the senses.

It’s no surprise this natural treasure — both modest and deeply mystical — has enjoyed growing popularity in health, healing and culinary circles.

Salt therapy is said to offer a natural alternative to treating common ailments such as eczema, asthma, allergies and many other respiratory and skin disorders. This alternative approach has allowed some people to eliminate or significantly reduce the amount of medications used. (Of course, patients should consult their doctors before engaging in any therapy.)

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Two local entrepreneurs have harnessed the mythos and health benefits of Himalayan rock salt with their new venture, Salt Essence Therapy.

Offering both salt therapy (also known as halotherapy) and infrared sauna therapy in a relaxing ambiance with low lighting, soft music and an aesthetically-pleasing salt-themed decor, Salt Essence Therapy was launched last November by Diana Gatchalian and Flo Washizaki. Both are long-time residents of Temecula.

Gatchalian and Washizaki recently answered our questions about Salt Essence Therapy, and their experience as entrepreneurs in southwest Riverside County.

Q: What prompted you to open Salt Essence Therapy?

A: After visiting a salt cave, we kept thinking of the advantages and benefits we could offer our community. It was exciting to bring an alternative therapy for everyday issues many people are experiencing.

Q: How is Salt Essence Therapy unique?

A: The salt used in our “caves” — imported directly from Pakistan — is mined from the Himalayan mountains. Dry, pure, 99.99% sodium chloride is crushed into tiny micro-particles and then dispersed [using halogenerators] into the room, where the micro-particles are inhaled. Without a halogenerator you have no therapeutic or wellness benefits.

We also have an infrared sauna. Its benefits are detoxification, relaxation, pain relief, weight loss, improved circulation and skin purification.

Q: Halotherapy seems to be enjoying a spike in popularity right now.

A: Salt Therapy is relatively new in the United States and has only emerged here in the last 10 to 15 years. There are thousands of facilities throughout Europe and Russia offering salt therapy.

Q: In forming your new business, did you take advantage of any local business resources?

A: Yes, we belong to both the Temecula and the Murrieta/Wildomar Chambers of Commerce.

Q: Do you have any advice for people who may want to open a small business in Murrieta or nearby?

A: Yes, learn how to save, expect delays, be prepared to network, and take advantage of social media.

Salt Essence Therapy

Address: 40675 Murrieta Hot Springs Road, Suite B4, Murrieta

Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; closed Sundays and Mondays.

Cost: $45 for a 45-minute salt therapy session ($30 for first-timers); discounts for seniors, children, groups, packages and memberships.

Call: (951) 704-7420

Online: saltessencetherapy.com

temecula@sduniontribune.com

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