My Healing Experience at Stewart Mineral Springs

Sequestered in the Mt. Shasta foothills, Stewart Mineral Springs offers a unique environment of sacred mineral waters, affordable accommodations, and a variety of workshops and retreats. For contact information please see OPEN EXCHANGE's Retreats & Getaways category.

I discovered Stewart Mineral Springs in 2007 and was immediately drawn in by the "relax, you're here" sign. The first thing I noticed was the wonderful quiet. The creek sounds and birds were all I heard. My dog, Grizzly and I walked down the path towards the covered bridge. The columbines and other wildflowers were blooming; the flowing creek and beautiful, tranquil forest surrounded us. I met an employee who explained the history of Stewart Springs and, most importantly, told me about the healing baths and how the minerals in the water pulled toxins from your body. We live in a toxic world and our bodies have unique ways to fight these toxins. For some, the liver or colon are targeted. For me, it's the kidneys. In 2006, I'd been diagnosed with medullary sponge kidneys. My left kidney was failing and my right picked up the slack. I was told, I'd have to be on pharmaceutical meds for the rest of my life and that I should begin dialysis immediately. I've never liked medications or doctors for that matter. I began a homeopathic war that included changing my diet and regular exercise. I tried a few other things that fell to the wayside after my first bath experience.

First Bath

As I entered the bathhouse, I was greeted by a very, friendly attendant. I had brought a friend and we followed the first-time bather instructions. It was stress free and full of powerful, positive energy. The love of mother earth was evident. The attendant poured our baths while we entered the hot wood sauna. It was clean and smelled like camping. After twenty minutes, we went into our private baths to soak. Later, we eased into the plunge pool and submerged ourselves. The water was fresh and invigorating. As we walked back into the bathhouse, my friend noticed two red spots on my back, one where each of my kidneys were. I felt prickly sensations where the spots were. Later, I learned that if you experience a mild, prickly rash it was toxins being released. I was completely wowed. For days after, I felt like a new person. I went back twice a week for the next year. In 2008, after a full work up, my urologist said that if he didn't have the data to prove it he would never believe it. Both kidneys were completely functioning. I never took a pill or had dialysis.

In 2008 I moved away from Shasta and didn't return for a year. My kidneys were sore again although I still ate the same nutritious way. The only difference was I moved to a toxic city and hadn't had a magical bath. When I returned in 2010, it was like my first experience. I had red spots and no more pain. I felt great. I'm planning to return at least once a month for a magical, healing bath.

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