Climatotherapy in Mariánské Lázně and Its Effects on Human Health

According to professional definitions, climatotherapy is the active, targeted, and carefully dosed use of climatic factors. It is carried out under medical supervision, with an essential component being a balanced combination of emotionally engaging activities tailored to the guest’s age and overall health condition.

An indispensable condition for effective climatotherapy is the systematic care of vegetation and watercourses within the spa area and its surroundings — not only for health-related reasons, but also for their aesthetic value.

Climatotherapy Activities

• Guided walks along marked spa trails, with gradual extension of routes and a progressive increase in elevation gain and walking pace.
• In recent years, Nordic walking has gained significant popularity. This form of physical activity is particularly beneficial for individuals with cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, obesity, chronic fatigue syndrome, as well as functional and degenerative conditions of the spine.
• Active cold exposure (body hardening) serves as a valuable complementary activity.
• Among spa procedures, we recommend contrast limb baths, full-body mineral carbon dioxide baths, and inhalations using natural spring resources.

A mildly stimulating climate is especially suitable for the treatment of respiratory diseases. It is beneficial for patients recovering from severe infections as well as for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, such as bronchial asthma.
A mildly irritating climate is suitable for individuals with immunodeficiency conditions and for those exposed to long-term psychological stress or environments burdened by dust and noise.
As with any form of therapy, climatotherapy must be prescribed individually, taking into account the patient’s overall health status and all existing medical diagnoses. Different climatic loads are recommended, for example, for an elderly cardiac patient or a diabetic than for a physically active individual with a dermatological condition.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate is essential. In diabetic patients, regular blood glucose monitoring (glycaemia) is required, while in patients with respiratory difficulties, monitoring of blood oxygen saturation is indispensable.
During spa treatment, the positive effects of the climate are further enhanced by sensory stimuli. Acoustic, visual, and olfactory inputs influence the central nervous system and thus help alleviate health problems, prolong remission in chronically ill patients, or slow the progression of disease.