Find out why going to the Dead Sea is a good idea

Jordan , this 605 km² lake  is known for its particularly high salt content. Surely you have already seen a photo of a person lying in the water, quietly reading a book. Well, it’s the Dead Sea! Many tourists go there to float, but also to benefit from the benefits of this water and its mud.

The particularity of this lake, the many historical and religious sites that surround it, as well as its warm climate make the Dead Sea an amazing and pleasant destination.

Summary

  • What is this phenomenon due to?
  • A unique experience
  • Proven Benefits

What is this phenomenon due to?

As you walk along the shores of the Dead Sea, you can observe white layers of salt on the shores of this lake. Also, you will certainly notice the history of the different observable water levels thanks to visible traces on the rocks. Several questions then arise: why is this lake so salty  and why is the Dead Sea gradually disappearing ?

The average salinity rate of the seas and oceans is between 2 and 4%. And yet, the Dead Sea is 27.5% salt . As you might expect, this salt content prevents all animal and plant life. You won’t find any fish or algae there. Also, humans must take great precautions before bathing in it. It is forbidden to dive there, to put your head under water and even to try to swim in it. Indeed, swallowing the cup would be putting yourself in danger, because swallowing a large amount of salt can damage certain organs of the human body.

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The Dead Sea is fed by the Jordan , a river in the Middle East. Each year, it brings about 850,000 tons of salt. Since the Dead Sea is 395 meters below sea level , this water can only escape through evaporation. As the countries surrounding the lake are particularly dry, they divert water from the Jordan River for irrigation purposes. At present, this diversion of water represents 90% of what should be served in the Dead Sea. In addition, the natural evaporation of water accelerates. Also, some factories specialized in the exploitation of minerals pump water for their activity. Finally, it rains too little in this region of the globe to replenish the lake with water…

It is for all these reasons that the salinity of this lake is extremely high. With a loss of about 4 km² of surface per year, its future is uncertain.

A unique experience

Besides the fact that we are certainly part of the last generations to be able to observe this lake and enjoy it, it is an experience to live at least once in your life. Indeed, the sensation of floating is extraordinary in these waters. The force they exert is very surprising and it feels like a very light ball. In addition, the water temperature is very pleasant almost all year round, except in winter.

Bathing dead sea
Credits: Wikipedia

Proven Benefits

This destination is very popular with people who like to take care of themselves, but also with a population suffering from various ailments. The region is indeed a high place of research in the field of care and health. The components of the water, the mud, as well as the climate of the region would improve many skin and respiratory diseases, but would also relieve rheumatism and muscular pains.

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To test the powers of the Dead Sea for yourself, feel free to slather mud all over your body and then take a dip in the lake to rinse off.

However, be careful not to stay in the water for more than 10 minutes to avoid damaging your skin. Also, do not forget to rinse with fresh water. There are showers on most beaches around this lake, especially in hotels.

Dead Sea, Jordan
Credits: Discover the world
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Mohamed SAKHRI

I am Mohamed SAKHRI, the creator and editor-in-chief of this blog, 'Discover the World – The Blog for Curious Travelers.' Join me as we embark on a journey around the world, uncovering beautiful places, diverse cultures, and captivating stories. Additionally, we will delve into mysterious and, at times, even bizarre destinations.

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