June 2, 2023

This paid piece is sponsored by The Sauna Haus.

There’s a good chance, given the season, that Chris Hanmer’s struggles will sound relatable.

“I’m quite allergenic,” he said. “I have high allergies, and I was going through some pretty bad sinus issues, which I go through a couple times per year.”

That was a few years ago, when his chronic seasonal allergies led the small-business owner to another local small business: The Sauna Haus, which is the only place in Sioux Falls to offer halotherapy, also known as dry salt therapy.

“You go into this room with beautiful lighting and amazing music, and you just have a wonderful relaxing experience as you’re being treated,” Hanmer said.

Owner Lori Meyer brought dry salt therapy to Sioux Falls when she opened her business at 1511 E. 69th St. in 2017.

This noninvasive treatment involves breathing in salt particles to improve your lungs.

“The medical grade salt is ground into microscopic particles and blown into the booth,” Meyer explained. “The salt has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and even antifungal properties. Breathing in the salt will assist in detoxing the lungs and opening up the airways.”

Salt therapy can benefit those with allergies, respiratory conditions and skin issues, she added. Clients have found relief from a long list of conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, snoring, sleep apnea, acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis, as well as reduced stress and anxiety.

“We’ve had several clients come in post-COVID-19 to help improve their breathing and increase the amount of oxygen in their blood,” Meyer said.

Athletes also can benefit greatly from halotherapy, she added.

“Better breathing will increase stamina and oxygenate muscles more efficiently,” Meyer said. “Since I incorporated salt therapy into my self-care routine, I can run or ride my bike further before I get winded.”

Sessions are 20 minutes long, and Meyer suggested beginning a few times a week for the first few weeks, especially if it’s addressing a chronic condition.

“Salt therapy has been a game-changer for many of our clients, especially my husband,” Meyer said.

“Over a span of 20 years, he had two sinus surgeries and then tried allergy shots, but nothing worked. He resorted to taking Allegra every day. Since doing salt therapy, he rarely has to take any medication.”

The majority of dry salt therapy clients are coming in for allergy and sinus relief, she added.

“We’ve had clients that had been on antibiotics for sinusitis but got relief from salt therapy. Clients suffering from allergies have been able to reduce or stop taking allergy medications. In addition to relief of their symptoms, many clients notice improved breathing when they are active or working out.”

If you’re ready to quit suffering through spring and beyond, consider it, Hanmer said.

“I would say just try it. Try it two or three times, and see if you get the benefits from it,” he said. “I really believe people will.”

Through June 30, The Sauna Haus is running a three-month summer special. For $300, you’ll receive three months of 12 salt or sauna sessions per month.

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