Vino therapy is a treatment method using wine for beneficial effects on health and well-being.
Winding Down in Style:
In the relentless pursuit of relaxation, humans have become masters of turning dirt into zen. It's ironic, really, considering we're the species that carries the most unnecessary stress. Unlike other creatures, we work to fulfil more than just our basic needs – we spend a chunk of our week at work, and our identity often depends on our jobs. You might see this way of life as the epitome of accomplishment, or you might think we've lost our way somewhere along the line. But one thing's for sure – we're stressed, big time. So it's no surprise that we've invented ways to unwind.
Some find solace in a traditional spa day, with a rejuvenating massage and a sauna session. Others prefer to hit the gym for a good run, engage in a tennis match with friends, or breaststroke their way to peace in a swimming pool. There's yoga, mindfulness, therapy sessions, and more – all designed to help us disconnect from the world and reconnect with ourselves.
But what if we told you there's a new stress-busting craze thatcould make your wine-drinking and bath time a whole lot more indulgent? Yes, you heard it right – let's talk about wine bath. But don't get too excited; we're not suggesting you jump into a bathtub of Cabernet Sauvignon – unless you're keen on cleaning your bathtub afterwards. Instead, vino therapy involves repurposing the residue from winemaking – the pips, pulp, and seeds – to create a luxurious skincare and wellness treatment.
The Grape Escape
Before we dive into the grape details, it's important to acknowledge that vino therapy isn't a new concept. Companies like Caudalie, founded by Mathilde Thomas and her husband Bertrand in 1995, have been pioneers in this field. They connected with Joseph Vercauteren, a polyphenol specialist, who enlightened them about the potential benefits of grape seeds' procyanidolic oligomers. As a result, the couple launched their business, paving the way for vino therapy to become a mainstream wellness practice.
Today, more and more companies are cottoning on to the benefits of vino therapy. Treatments related to this practice are claimed to offer protection against free radicals and even boast benefits such as reducing wrinkles, treating acne, and improving hair health – a long list of perks indeed. Some people believe that if vino therapy doesn't help, at least it won't harm them.
A Vino Soak with a View
Recently, vino therapy baths have opened in the Dutch town of Valkenburg, situated on top of a hill called Cauberg. There, you can immerse yourself in a vino bath while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This unique spa experience is a collaboration between wellness center Thermae 2000 and nearby Wine Estate St. Martinus. They use the pomace - the pulp - of their Monarch grapes, exceptionally rich in antioxidants, to fill the baths for their guests. Prior to entering the bath, you'll exfoliate your skin with a completely natural grape scrub. Once you're ready, sink into the bath filled with grape pulp, grape seed oil, Calendula, and rose petals.
According to wine expert Stan Beurskens, the Monarch grape antioxidant resveratrol protects the skin from harmful effects of UV radiation and pollution. Not only that, resveratrol is also said to strengthen the skin, reduce wrinkles, and provide other skincare benefits – which, as long as there's a glass of wine close by, is more than good enough for us!
Insights:Vino therapy, also known as vinotherapy, is a holistic approach that makes use of grapes and wine by-products to promote overall well-being and provide skincare benefits. This practice aims to helo relieve stress, fight free radicals, and slow down the aging process. Wine extracts are loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help prevent cell damage and improve skin hydration, brightness, and texture. Some common vino therapy ingredients are grape seeds, grape pulp, and resveratrol, which have been shown to protect the skin from environmental stressors, improve skin barrier function, and reduce wrinkles. Regular use of vino therapy products can help create a more youthful, radiant complexion while providing a relaxing and indulgent experience.
- In the realm of sustainable living, vino therapy, a holistic approach using grape by-products, has emerged as a stress-busting trend, offering skincare benefits and relaxation.
- Pioneers in this field include companies like Caudalie, founded by Mathilde Thomas and her husband Bertrand, who collaborated with polyphenol specialist Joseph Vercauteren to leverage the benefits of grape seeds' procyanidolic oligomers.
- Vino therapy treatments are said to offer protection against free radicals, reduce wrinkles, and improve hair health, among other benefits.
- As the practice gains mainstream acceptance, destinations like the Dutch town of Valkenburg, situated on top of a hill called Cauberg, offer vino therapy baths with breathtaking views, using the antioxidant-rich Monarch grape pomace.
- Before entering the bath, guests exfoliate their skin with a natural grape scrub, then sink into a warm mixture of grape pulp, grape seed oil, Calendula, and rose petals.
- Wine extracts, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, are believed to help prevent cell damage, improve skin hydration, brightness, and texture, making vino therapy an indulgent addition to one's eco-friendly lifestyle and travel adventures.
