In the world of wellness, people are always searching for the next big thing to rejuvenate, detox, or simply relax. But some of the latest trends are so unconventional, they border on bizarre. From ancient practices to modern-day innovations, here are seven of the strangest wellness treatments that have been making waves around the globe.
Cupping
An ancient practice that has recently gained popularity thanks to celebrities and athletes, cupping involves placing heated cups on the skin to create suction. This suction is believed to improve blood flow, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing. The result? Circular bruises on your back that look like a set of octopus hickeys – but many swear by the benefits for pain relief and relaxation. Photo by Milan Krasula.
Fire Cupping
Taking cupping up a notch, fire cupping adds an extra element of heat (and excitement). Instead of using suction cups, a flame is briefly placed inside glass cups to remove oxygen, creating a vacuum when applied to the skin. As the name suggests, it involves real fire, so this intense version of cupping isn’t for the faint-hearted – but it’s said to be even more effective at relieving tension and stimulating energy flow. Photo by Tim Chow.
Bee Sting Therapy
Also known as apitherapy, this involves letting live bees sting specific areas of your body. Yes, you read that right! In 2016, Gwyneth Paltrow (ever the wellness adventurer) made headlines when she spoke about experimenting with bee stings as a wellness treatment. The idea is that bee venom contains anti-inflammatory compounds and ✨may✨ help with conditions like arthritis, nerve pain, and even autoimmune diseases. While it’s a controversial practice, some devotees claim the stings give them relief from chronic pain. Just make sure you’re not allergic! Photo by Irving Penn for Vogue, 1995.
Snail Facials
Snail mucin, or the slime secreted by snails, is a TikTok favorite and has been a popular skincare ingredient in luxury products for a while. But snail facials take it to the next level. In this treatment, live snails are placed directly on your face, where they slowly crawl and leave behind a trail of slime. 😬 The snail slime is packed with proteins, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid, which are said to hydrate, repair, and rejuvenate the skin. It’s one of the weirdest (and slimiest) ways to get that glow. Photo by Aleksandr Zyablitskiy.
Snake Massage
If you’re feeling brave, how about a snake massage? In this unusual practice, non-venomous snakes slither across your body, their movement thought to have a calming, therapeutic effect. Proponents say the snakes' slithering provides deep tissue massage and helps relieve stress and anxiety. It’s not for everyone – especially if you have a fear of snakes – but for some, it’s an unforgettable (and oddly relaxing) experience. Hard pass on this one for us. Photo courtesy of weather.com.
Vampire Facial
The vampire facial, made famous by celebrities like Kim Kardashian, involves drawing a small amount of your own blood and using it in a skincare treatment. After your blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets, the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is microneedled back into your skin. The goal? To stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and give you a youthful glow. Despite its slightly creepy name, it’s hailed as a powerful anti-aging treatment. Photo courtesy of allure.com.
Hay Bath
Ever wanted to relax in a pile of hay? Hay baths have been a traditional treatment in the Italian Alps for centuries. Participants are wrapped in warm, fermenting hay, which is thought to detoxify the body, relieve joint pain, and improve circulation. The natural oils released by the hay are also said to have healing properties. It may seem odd to cover yourself in grass, but this rustic treatment promises deep relaxation and relief from ailments. Just don't forget your Flonase. Ahhh-choo! Photo by Ross Helen for Getty Images.
From fire cupping to bee stings and even snakes as massage therapists, the wellness world is full of strange, bold ideas. While some might seem extreme, they each have a loyal following of believers who swear by their benefits. Would you be willing to try any of these? Or do you prefer sticking to more conventional spa treatments? Either way, it’s clear that the quest for health and beauty knows no bounds.