Hot Water History HISTORY OF PALM SPRINGS HOT WATER SPRINGS

As early as 5,000 years ago, people were using hot springs for relaxation and hydrotherapy or “water therapy” which is simply the use of water in the treatment of disease.

Greeks, Romans, British, Japanese, and Native Americans are only some of the cultures that have used hot water springs as a place to meet and enjoy company, treat physical ailments, cleanse the body, or simply enjoy the good feeling that hot water brings the body.

In the 1800’s, Europe began developing hydrotherapy spas that are increasingly popular today.

Recent History HEALING PROPERTIES

When Spanish explorers first discovered Palm Springs, they named the area "Agua Caliente" (hot water), a name the Indians living there, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, already named the area, "Se-Khi" (hot springs).

Both groups identified the hot spring as the significant feature in the area. “According to Cahuilla mythology, the hot spring is a place of power and healing where nukatem (powerful beings) dwell and a source from which shamans obtained their power.” As early as 1876, people began coming to Palm Springs for the hot water.

Today, the water heated from volcanic activity is pumped to spas and resorts where thousands come for the healing properties of the hot springs.