Ojo Caliente

On our last day in New Mexico we all took the opportunity to relax a little bit and we went to the hot springs at Oho Caliente. The springs website really explains it best, so I quote

"Ojo Caliente is the only hot springs in the world with a remarkable combination of four different types of mineral water: lithium, iron, soda and arsenic. Our ten pools are filled with different types and combinations of waters with temperatures ranging from 80-109 degrees."

And they had so many different kinds!

"Located at the heart of the springs, the historic pump has been dispensing this unique water since the nineteenth century. Lithium is believed to relieve depression and aid digestion."

"A Native American legend tells that the giant rock in the iron pool guards the place where the ancient people of the mesa once received food and water during times of famine. The warm, iron-rich water bubbles up from the natural pebble floor, providing hot spots to discover in this mystical outdoor cliffside pool. Iron is considered to be beneficial to the blood and immune system."

"The rock walls in the enclosed Soda “steam” pool create a soft echo providing a sense of calm and relaxation. Water from the Soda Spring is said to have been used to relieve digestive problems."

"The arsenic water is believed to be beneficial for relief from arthritis, stomach ulcers and to heal a variety of skin conditions. Water from the iron and arsenic springs is blended in various pools throughout the property."

It was a lovely day and some of us even indulged in a herbal detox wrap where they wrap you up in hot towels that have been soaked in herbs that are supposed to draw out impurities from the body. The expereince was really quite delicious and we all came out ready for another full day of travelling, and we may even be able to survive the frigid air and sunless skies of Michigan.