ABSTRACT
Water has always symbolized the source of life and longevity as well as physical and emotional strength. The occurrence of natural thermal springs, alongside other manifestations of geothermal energy, has been regarded as supernatural and treated as gods' gifts. Introducing modern balneological methods, alternative medicine and treatments aimed at maintaining physical fitness, good state of mind and appearance, combined with active tourism, changes the notion of health resort therapy to health resort tourism. The therapeutic treatments performed here address patients with musculoskeletal and neurological disorders, chronic heavy metal poisoning and gynecological diseases. The Balneology Association of Northern America (BANA) was established to support the research, education and information of natural mineral waters for health and wellness. The main objectives of the organization include recognizing natural and geothermal mineral waters as beneficial to health, promoting treatment of disorders and rehabilitation as well as preventive care and supporting the management of natural waters.
