ABSTRACT

Bringing together a range of different place-studies, including holy wells, spa towns, Turkish baths and sweat-houses, sea-bathing and the modern spa, this book investigates associations between water, health, place and culture in Ireland. It is informed by a humanistic approach, showing how health and place are socially and culturally constructed and how health is embodied, experienced and enacted in place. In addition, the work argues that an understanding of health and place must also consider the historical, societal and cultural orthodoxies that shape and produce those places.

chapter 1|18 pages

Introduction

chapter 2|30 pages

Holy Wells: The Faith Cure

chapter 3|30 pages

Spa Towns: The Rest Cure

chapter 5|32 pages

Sea Bathing: The Thalassic Cure

chapter 6|32 pages

The Modern Spa: The Relaxation Cure

chapter 7|10 pages

Conclusion