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Hammam: The Ancient Spa

The hammam or Turkish Bath, an ancient middle Eastern variation of the traditional steam bath, is making a major comeback at international spas.

Similar to a sauna, the hammam offers much more from both a spiritual and holistic sense. The word hammam is derived from the Arabic word meaning heat, and in Arabic is sometimes generally applied to any bathroom. Originating in Arabia, the Turkish bath quickly spread to Western Europe by the Ottomans. In European countries the word hammam has since been used to describe hot springs or spa towns. According to ancient Islamic texts, the hammam promoted fertility, purity, and cleanliness. In ancient times, the hammam gained religious significance and was frequently annexed to mosques.

Early Origins

The first hammams consisted of three interconnected rooms modeled after the Greek-Roman baths. The first two rooms were sauna-like structures designed to induce sweating and can be compared to the Roman calidarium and tepidarium. Massages were typically given in one of these heated rooms.

The hammam's third room was used for cooling and rinsing. Here, drinks might be served and cubicles were available for napping. The ancient hammams, like the Roman baths, were used as social centers with separate rooms available for men and women.

Harvest Moon

AUTUMN Thou comest, Autumn, heralded by the rain, With banners, by great gales incessant fanned, Brighter than brightest silks of Samarcand, And stately oxen harnessed to thy wain! Thou standest, like imperial Charlemagne, Upon thy bridge of gold; thy royal hand Outstretched with benedictions o'er the land, Blessing the farms through all thy vast domain! Thy shield is the red harvest moon, suspended So long beneath the heaven's o'er-hanging eaves; Thy steps are by the farmer's prayers attended; Like flames upon an altar shine the sheaves; And, following thee, in thy ovation splendid, Thine almoner, the wind, scatters the golden leaves! -Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Journey towards Tranquility

"Be like the sun for grace and mercy. Be like the night to cover
others' faults. Be like running water for generosity. Be like death for
rage and anger. Be like the Earth for modesty. Appear as you are. Be as
you appear."
~Rumi

Jamaican Me Crazy!

“Life is one big road with lots of signs. So when you riding through the ruts, don't complicate your mind. Flee from hate, mischief and jealousy. Don't bury your thoughts, put your vision to reality . Wake Up and Live!”
~Bob Marley

Sting - Desert Rose