Led by ESPA Board Member Marlies Sobczak, our recent online workshop, held on the 18 June 2026, united European experts to highlight the scientifically backed power of marine environments and thalassotherapy for preventive health and longevity.

Our recent online workshop brought together leading experts to discuss the future of preventive health, wellness, and longevity tourism. Following the HealthXChange summit in Varna, this expert session highlighted the incredible, scientifically backed potential of marine environments and thalassotherapy.

Here are the key takeaways from our experts:

The Power of the Ocean: For this workshop Prof. Jana Asselman (University of Gent) prepared a memorandum, highly relevant to anyone involved in Thalassotherapy. She emphasized that the ocean is an underutilised, scientifically validated resource for human health. Integrating coastal exposure into healthcare systems can significantly improve well-being, reduce costs, and support planetary health.

Marine Climatotherapy: Dr. Michele Antonelli (World Hydrothermal Organization), a leading physician and researcher in balneotherapy, thalassotherapy, and regenerative medicine sent a filmed presentation exploring “Marine Climate and Health.

• He defined Marine Climatotherapy as the therapeutic exposure to coastal environmental conditions, including sunlight, marine aerosols, sea water, sand, and mud. Backed by clinical evidence, Dr. Antonelli explained how these elements work together to provide powerful prevention and clinical rehabilitation. He noted that the specific characteristics of marine air which is rich in iodine, magnesium, and negative ions act as a natural aerosol therapy that improves respiratory function and reduces systemic inflammation.

A Holistic Epigenetic Journey: Bringing over 30 years of experience in thalassotherapy, Mr. Serge Fourcade (Product & Quality Director, Thalazur group), introduced Thalazur’s ground-breaking approach to lifestyle and longevity.

• He explained that while our DNA is fixed, epigenetics dictates how our genes express themselves based on behaviour and environment.
• Catering primarily to guests from France who stay for an average duration of 5 days, Thalazur maximizes their stay by structuring intensive, active cures. Within this timeframe, guests are guided through their signature 5 Pillars of Epigenetics: nutrition (mindful and targeted), personalized physical activity, stress management, a supportive social environment, and the pure pleasure of living (plaisir).
• The Impact: This program effectively translates preventative science into concrete, active routines that empower individuals to take control of their biological aging long after they return home.

Connecting Passion with Science: Prof. Dr. Friedhardt Raschke stepped in to present on behalf of his daughter, Ms. Anja Raschke (SPA and Thalasso Coordinator at Staatsbad Norderney). Their presentation combined a deep personal connection to the island of Norderney with rigorous medical science, showcasing how diverse thermal environments maximise healing. Staatsbad Norderney brings this to life through a sophisticated variety of therapeutic mineral environments, including:

• A 32°C seawater main pool alongside a family pool utilising original seawater.
• A sparkling outdoor inhalation pool designed for respiratory benefits.
• An intense, roofless indoor fire pool at 43°C. The roofless pool allows guests to connect with nature through natural elements such as rain during their stay.
• A specialized floating pool enriched with 8% sea salt at 37°C for total muscular and mental decompression.

Thalassotherapy publications in the Calmfidence Magazine:

We were thrilled to highlight the work of award-winning expert Nell Putter. Featured in a fantastic article in CalmFidence world magazine, the feature dives into how professional thalassotherapy serves as a powerful tool for holistic regeneration and emotional health.

Save the Date: Autumn 2026 Online Workshop

We are excited to keep the momentum going! Join us for our next online workshop in Autumn 2026.

Featured Speaker: We will be joined by Kira Zaytseva (Business Engineer at O’Mineral & Technature, France), who will share professional insights and best practices on how to bring Thalasso closer to guests, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.

Want to get involved? Have questions or want to participate in the next session? Reach out to us directly at thalasso@europeanspas.eu and follow the news on our website: https://europeanspas.eu/thalasso-working-group/