It has been proven that concerts extend life. At least, so says a study conducted by London's O2 Pavilion in collaboration with Patrick Fagan, a lecturer at Goldsmith University and an expert in behavioral science. The recently published report claims that attending live events on a regular basis can improve health and extend our life expectancy by up to 9 years. That's nothing.

So we are in luck, because between June 21 and July 29 the cycle of Noches del Botánico will offer twenty performances with which we will not only get listening pleasure, but will make us be healthier and be longer-lived. If you need a ration of rest and health, we recommend you to write down in your agenda some of the live performances of the cycle Noches del Botánico. With such a wide and varied offer of music, you will easily find a show that suits your tastes: jazz, flamenco, rock, funk...

And if you want to delve into the process of taking care of body and mind during this summer, whether you live in Madrid or are just passing through, below we list some relaxation and health activities that you can complement the day, along with attending the #NDB2018 concerts.

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Bikram yoga

Bikram yoga is an extreme yoga modality. At least for the common of western 'mortals', because according to its creator, Bikram Choundhury, the conditions in which it is practiced serve simply to emulate those that would be given in India, the country of birth of yoga. 

And what are these extreme conditions? That to each infinite stretching and impossible twisting of the body, or asanas, we must add a temperature of around 40 degrees and a humidity of 40% as well. The challenge in the first class, according to experts, is to endure inside the classroom. However, if you succeed, the benefits are many: with the heat, injuries are avoided and a greater release of toxins and purification of the body is obtained. The difficulty of the exercises also helps develop concentration, self-control and relaxation. 

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Where to practice bikram yoga in Madrid

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Spa

Water is, in itself, therapy for bodies worn out by stress and the intense pace of city life. That is why spas have become almost essential refuges in which to reset and regain tone and, above all, zen. Visiting a center where hydrotherapy techniques are also applied provides not only the pleasant feeling of relaxation, but also multiple benefits for the body. 

Water has been used as a healing method for centuries. Nowadays, the discipline has been improved and perfected. Thus, we can find spaces where the modalities of physical hydrotherapy are combined, with jets with different intensities, steam, etc; thermal hydrotherapy, in which the treatment is performed with the variation of temperatures; or chemical hydrotherapy, which focuses on the composition of the water, with mineral salts, electrolytes and other compounds (more typical of spas or thalassotherapy).

All spas in Madrid

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Arab baths

One of the legacies bequeathed to us by the Muslim presence in Madrid is the Arab baths or hammam. Immersing yourself in one of these spaces pacifies body and mind, with a calm environment, relaxing and evocative aromas and soft light.

One of the best known hammams in Madrid is the one located at 14 Atocha Street. Its pools, located in the vaulted basement of an old building, offer three different traditional temperatures. Warm water to begin with disconnection and relaxation, hot water to eliminate toxins and impurities, and cold water to stimulate circulation and the nervous system.

Where to find Arab baths in Madrid

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Four hands massage

Another of the wonders that Asia has brought to our doorstep. This type of massage is so intensely relaxing that it simultaneously combines massage techniques, music and aromatherapy. The sensory experience is unique.

Four hands work on the receiver of the massage, so that the effects multiply and bend even the most stubborn levels of stress and body tension. As a particularity, in Madrid you will find many establishments where you can choose to enjoy this feeling of wellness alone or accompanied.

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Four hands massage centers in Madrid

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By María R. Ciges