Malvern Water Cure | water-cure

The Malvern Water Cure

This page provides an example of hydrotherapy developments and practices in the UK. I was introduced to the water cure subject after relocating to the Malvern Hills area several years ago. Field-research, for dissertation purposes, further increased knowledge regarding the area's rich water culture heritage.

According to folklore, Malvern waters have long been used for health-restorative purposes. One of the earliest records of its curative powers, however, was a report by oculist Richard Banister in 1622. Banister comments that the waters of a small local spring have been found useful for diseases of the eyes (Harcup, 1992). The infamous Malvern Water Cure was developed by Dr John Wall. He described 'the use of bandages and wet poultices to treat skin diseases and sores in the eighteenth century' (Adams, 2015: 31). He also reported a cure from 'scrophulous ophthalmy' (an inflammatory condition of the conjunctiva) through bathing the eyes with Holywell water (Osborne & Weaver, 2012: 95).

Drs James Wilson and James Gully finally established Malvern as an inland hydropathic resort with their new systemised version of the water cure, in 1842, following Wilson's trip to the renowned Priessnitz sanatorium in central Europe. Vincent Priessnitz is credited with being the founder of modern hydrotherapy, which encompasses the cold water applications of hydropathy as well as the mineral water treatments of spa medicine (Adams, 2015). Hydropathic treatments included 'showers, wraps and enemas', whilst emphasising the importance of 'diet and exercise as well as bathing and drinking' (ibid: 5). Hydrotherapeutic practices have been revived with the opening of The Malvern Spa in 2008.

Sitz bath - Malvern Museum exhibit

Holywell - Malvern Wells

Contemporary Hydrotherapy at The Malvern Spa

Foot Spa

A gentle way to begin the calming and cleansing spa ritual. Relax on the tiled seating and fill your personal foot bath to your own temperature and soak away the stresses in your feet.

Hydrotherapy

Our unique 20m indoor-outdoor hydrotherapy pool with its warmed Malvern spring waters, comprises numerous features including vigorous bubble massage stations, powerful water jets, gentle hydrotherapy beds and relaxing booths.

Four Thermal Rituals

Salt grotto: gently warm your body on the heated tiled seats and inhale the natural salt infused water. This rich, natural source of salt microns and negative ions is reputed to have a restorative effect on the respiratory system, skin and ionic balance of the body for a complete feeling of well-being.

Crystal steam room: this large, fully tiled steam chamber with fibre-optic ceiling display is infused with essential oils that the intensely warm and humid air with relaxing aromas. A fantastic way to open the pores and relieve tension in your body.

Herb sauna: seasonal herbs and natural essential oils are gently steamed to cleanse body and mind. This state of the art sauna radiates a soft heat with a higher humidity than the dry heat found in a standard sauna so you can relax for longer.

Kelo sauna: one of only 10 in the UK, this rustic sauna is constructed from naturally fragrant wood

found only in the arctic circle. A large social space, there is plenty of room to recline, chat or simply

soak up the aromatic air atmosphere.

Cold Therapies

Ice fountain: this self-administered treatment involves scooping handfuls of crushed ice from a large central fountain and rubbing vigorously onto the skin to stimulate circulation and close the pores.

Bucket (drench) shower: for the more adventurous,

a much quicker way to cool down is to use the cold bucket shower which instantly drenches

you in chilled water for an exhilarating end to your fire and ice experience.

Spa Treatments © d/u The Malvern Spa (http://www.themalvernspa.com/assets/files/MalvernSpa-Treatment-Brochure.pdf; accessed: 19th March, 2016)

- Hydrotherapy -

a medical anthropological

approach to healing with water