Meet Sara Szal Gottfried MD

Exploring Chianciano Terme, Italy Waters at WorldSprings

on Mar 26, 2025 | 3 minutes

Exploring Chianciano Terme, Italy Waters at WorldSprings There are countless reasons to visit Italy, from the delectable cuisine to the centuries-old monuments, and breathtaking landscapes. This European destination is also a wonderful place to explore the many benefits associated with mineral hot springs. WorldSprings was inspired to create a similar hot springs experience in our Italy Pool, containing the same minerals found in the healing hot springs of Chianciano Terme. What makes Italy’s hot springs unique? Get to know the history and natural conditions behind one of our favorite European destinations. What Is Unique About the Waters of Italy? Soaking in Italy’s mineral hot springs has a rich history that dates to the third century BC. Romans understood the associated wellness benefits through experience soaking in the thermal pools. The water in Roman thermal baths was often sourced directly from nearby hot springs. The waters were considered holy, so bathhouses were often named for nearby temples throughout the Roman Empire. The temperature of Italy’s mineral hot springs can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and vary based on location. The heat prompts blood vessels to widen, which can help individuals who experience poor circulation caused by diabetes and other health conditions. Increased blood circulation also helps the heart pump blood more efficiently to manage blood pressure. Soaking in the calming pools is ideal for insomniacs and other individuals who struggle to fall asleep. The heat helps lower core body temperature, which lets your body know it’s time to rest. Chianciano Terme Mineral Hot Springs Although Italy has numerous mineral hot springs — from Bagno Vignoni in Tuscany and Bormio in Lombardy to Bullicame in Lazio and Ischia Island in Campania — today’s focus is on the tranquil waters in Chianciano Terme, the inspiration for our Italy Pool. This Tuscan destination, flanked by the Val d’Orcia countryside and Valdichiana valley, teems with Old World charm. The area features two thermal parks: Fucuoli and Acqua Santa. The waters within these parks include Acqua Santa, Acqua Fucoli, Acqua Sillene, and Acqua Santissima. Between soaking sessions, visitors take in the sights and learn more about the historic area. The Museum of the Collegiate Church of San Giovanni Battista, for instance, houses sacred furnishings and paintings spanning the 13th to 18th centuries. At the Museo Civico Archeologico delle Acque, visitors view unearthed items buried with the deceased, including ceramics and pottery from the 6th and 5th centuries B.C. What Minerals Are in Italian Hot Springs? The benefits of mineral hot springs in Italy can vary based on the mineral content. The thermal pools in Chianciano Terme (the inspiration for your WorldSprings’ experience) contain the following minerals: Sodium If you experience aches and pains, soaking in our buoyant, sodium-rich waters can alleviate the strain. The sensation of floating can help you relax while also making you feel literally lighter — taking the pressure off stiff joints for much-needed pain relief and better flexibility. Chloride The chloride in the mineral hot springs also alleviates muscle pain and could help tackle the debilitating symptoms of fibromyalgia. Sulfate If you feel stressed, the sulfate in the tranquil waters can help lower blood pressure so you can restore a sense of calm. Bicarbonate Bicarbonate will improve skin health by stopping the itchiness associated with psoriasis and eczema. You won’t feel the need to scratch, which will protect your skin from further damage. The Italian Springs Experience in Texas and Colorado Like the mineral composition of the waters of Chianciano Terme, the Italy Pool in WorldSprings’ Dallas and Colorado locations contain sodium, chloride, sulfate, and bicarbonate to enhance your mental and physical health. Visit WorldSprings for a relaxing, wellness-oriented getaway. Experience the benefits of Italian mineral spring soaks along with our other luxurious amenities, including saunas, private cabanas, and spa treatments.

Exploring the Kinosaki, Japan Waters at WorldSprings

on Mar 31, 2025 | 4 minutes

Exploring the Blue Lagoon Waters at WorldSprings Seeing the Northern Lights firsthand and taking in sweeping views of the glaciers are two popular reasons people visit Iceland. Given the country’s name and position just south of the Arctic Circle, you might be surprised to learn that the Nordic Island is home to more than 45 mineral hot springs and a rich social bathing culture. If you’ve ever been curious about what minerals are in Iceland’s hot springs and the benefits of mineral hot springs, you’re in the right place. WorldSprings has recreated the experience of an Icelandic mineral soak in the popular Blue Lagoon stateside, and we can’t wait to share what we’ve learned with you. What Is Unique About the Waters of Iceland? Part of Iceland rests on the North American tectonic plate, while the rest of the country is on the Eurasian tectonic plate. When the plates shift due to the liquified rock underneath, the movement triggers volcanic eruptions that give birth to mineral hot springs. Iceland’s mineral hot springs are known for their intense heat, which averages 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat levels vary based on whether magma chambers heat the water, the amount of cold water seeping in, and how fast the water flows. As a result, certain hot springs might feel lukewarm compared to others. Icelandic culture is deeply rooted in connecting with nature, which fuels the popularity of hot spring soaks. For locals, visiting hot springs reinforces a sense of community and provides a social hub. International travelers often seek out Iceland’s hot springs to enjoy the steamy waters surrounded by a rural, volcanic landscape. Although each hot spring offers different benefits, the therapeutic advantages of soaking in Iceland’s thermal pools only add to the appeal. Soaking in a thermal pool can desensitize pain receptors in the skin, joints, muscles and internal organs to relieve discomfort caused by arthritis and other chronic conditions. Relaxing and alleviating physical discomfort in one of the calming pools can also help you de-stress and feel less anxious. Hot springs can also help improve circulation thanks to the presence of calcium in Iceland’s waters. Calcium is necessary for the creation of nitric oxide, which helps relax the cells surrounding blood vessels and reduce constrictions. What Minerals Are Found in the Blue Lagoon? A trip to the Nordic country is incomplete without a trip to the Blue Lagoon. A few of the many minerals in the world-famous healing hot spring include potassium, magnesium, and sodium. Visitors and locals enjoy soothing soaks with picturesque views of Mount Þorbjörn in the backdrop. Our Iceland Pool takes its cue from the Blue Lagoon, allowing visitors to experience its therapeutic effects stateside, including: Potassium In addition to a solid skincare ritual, soaking in our potassium-infused waters will also improve skin health. Potassium aids epidermal barrier function to keep skin hydrated and looking its best. Magnesium The magnesium in the water improves skin health by blocking inflammation that occurs during acne flare-ups. The mineral also hydrates skin and strengthens its barrier, which helps it retain moisture and prevent dryness and flaking. If you are depressed or have trouble sleeping, a soak in magnesium-rich waters can reduce cortisol levels to help elevate your mood and get better-quality sleep. Sodium The sodium in WorldSprings’ waters can help curb the itching and scaliness associated with psoriasis and other dry skin conditions, while also alleviating symptoms of rheumatic diseases. Iceland Experience in Texas & Colorado WorldSprings’ wellness destinations in Dallas, TX, and Glenwood Springs, CO, are home to more than 40 mineral hot springs, cold plunges and Finnish saunas. The Blue Lagoon-inspired waters, part of the European Region, are popular among wellness-focused vacationers. The Iceland Pool’s high potassium, magnesium, and sodium content makes it possible to enjoy the type of mineral hot springs found in Iceland without leaving the U.S. Visitors can lounge in our six shaded pools to enjoy the benefits of Iceland-inspired waters before enjoying a rejuvenating dip in the nearby cold plunge pool. Book a cabana to unwind in privacy and luxury with priority refreshment service, or gather around the fire pit to enjoy lively conversations as the sun goes down. Whether you’re looking for a unique staycation or a romantic getaway with international flair, booking your WorldSprings visit will put you in a more relaxed state of mind.

Exploring the Blue Lagoon Waters at WorldSprings

on Mar 29, 2025 | 5 minutes

Exploring the Blue Lagoon Waters at WorldSprings Seeing the Northern Lights firsthand and taking in sweeping views of the glaciers are two popular reasons people visit Iceland. Given the country’s name and position just south of the Arctic Circle, you might be surprised to learn that the Nordic Island is home to more than 45 mineral hot springs and a rich social bathing culture. If you’ve ever been curious about what minerals are in Iceland’s hot springs and the benefits of mineral hot springs, you’re in the right place. WorldSprings has recreated the experience of an Icelandic mineral soak in the popular Blue Lagoon stateside, and we can’t wait to share what we’ve learned with you. What Is Unique About the Waters of Iceland? Part of Iceland rests on the North American tectonic plate, while the rest of the country is on the Eurasian tectonic plate. When the plates shift due to the liquified rock underneath, the movement triggers volcanic eruptions that give birth to mineral hot springs. Iceland’s mineral hot springs are known for their intense heat, which averages 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat levels vary based on whether magma chambers heat the water, the amount of cold water seeping in, and how fast the water flows. As a result, certain hot springs might feel lukewarm compared to others. Icelandic culture is deeply rooted in connecting with nature, which fuels the popularity of hot spring soaks. For locals, visiting hot springs reinforces a sense of community and provides a social hub. International travelers often seek out Iceland’s hot springs to enjoy the steamy waters surrounded by a rural, volcanic landscape. Although each hot spring offers different benefits, the therapeutic advantages of soaking in Iceland’s thermal pools only add to the appeal. Soaking in a thermal pool can desensitize pain receptors in the skin, joints, muscles and internal organs to relieve discomfort caused by arthritis and other chronic conditions. Relaxing and alleviating physical discomfort in one of the calming pools can also help you de-stress and feel less anxious. Hot springs can also help improve circulation thanks to the presence of calcium in Iceland’s waters. Calcium is necessary for the creation of nitric oxide, which helps relax the cells surrounding blood vessels and reduce constrictions. What Minerals Are Found in the Blue Lagoon? A trip to the Nordic country is incomplete without a trip to the Blue Lagoon. A few of the many minerals in the world-famous healing hot spring include potassium, magnesium, and sodium. Visitors and locals enjoy soothing soaks with picturesque views of Mount Þorbjörn in the backdrop. Our Iceland Pool takes its cue from the Blue Lagoon, allowing visitors to experience its therapeutic effects stateside, including: Potassium In addition to a solid skincare ritual, soaking in our potassium-infused waters will also improve skin health. Potassium aids epidermal barrier function to keep skin hydrated and looking its best. Magnesium The magnesium in the water improves skin health by blocking inflammation that occurs during acne flare-ups. The mineral also hydrates skin and strengthens its barrier, which helps it retain moisture and prevent dryness and flaking. If you are depressed or have trouble sleeping, a soak in magnesium-rich waters can reduce cortisol levels to help elevate your mood and get better-quality sleep. Sodium The sodium in WorldSprings’ waters can help curb the itching and scaliness associated with psoriasis and other dry skin conditions, while also alleviating symptoms of rheumatic diseases. Iceland Experience in Texas & Colorado WorldSprings’ wellness destinations in Dallas, TX, and Glenwood Springs, CO, are home to more than 40 mineral hot springs, cold plunges and Finnish saunas. The Blue Lagoon-inspired waters, part of the European Region, are popular among wellness-focused vacationers. The Iceland Pool’s high potassium, magnesium, and sodium content makes it possible to enjoy the type of mineral hot springs found in Iceland without leaving the U.S. Visitors can lounge in our six shaded pools to enjoy the benefits of Iceland-inspired waters before enjoying a rejuvenating dip in the nearby cold plunge pool. Book a cabana to unwind in privacy and luxury with priority refreshment service, or gather around the fire pit to enjoy lively conversations as the sun goes down. Whether you’re looking for a unique staycation or a romantic getaway with international flair, booking your WorldSprings visit will put you in a more relaxed state of mind.

Meet Sara Szal Gottfried MD