The Alps are among the richest regions in Europe for the variety of their landscapes and their plant and animal species. As the loss or destruction of habitats is the most direct threat to biodiversity, protected areas are crucial in countering the continuing loss of ecosystems and species. All in all, more than 1,000 large […]
Indication: stress
Alpine mountain hiking
The main reasons for hiking are experiencing nature, fresh air, the beauty of nature and landscape, fauna and flora. Another aspect that is becoming increasingly important is health as a motive for hiking holidays, with the scientific evidence of the positive effects of hiking on health and well-being now constantly growing. One of the first […]
Waterfalls
European mountain regions host numerous Alpine waterfalls that produce inhalable, negatively charged nano-water particles known as “Lenard ions” (see also air Ions). Negative air ions close by waterfalls, the so called “ionosols”, are generated by aerosolization of water droplets on an obstacle, an aqueous surface or by aerodynamic break-up during free fall. After breaking up, […]
Alpine water – blue spaces
Water is one of the most important physical and aesthetic landscape elements. Humans have always been attracted by rivers, lakes and the sea. What impact do aquatic environments have on people’s health? While the health benefits of green spaces are quite well explored, little analysis has been made of “blue spaces” and even less of […]
Balneotherapy in Alpine healing waters
In the strict sense of the term, balneotherapy is defined as the use of baths containing thermal mineral waters from natural springs at a temperature of at least 20°C and with a mineral content of at least 1 g⁄l. The temperature of the thermal water is usually around 20 degrees. Balneotherapy has been used since […]