For those apprehensive about neurological treatments that involve the use of technology, there are still brain-focused programs that can be explored. “Technology is amazing, and it is exciting to see what the future holds for the care and treatment of more complex cases, but also remember that the tools to support your brain and body are already within you, and free medicine is all around us,” Houde says, pointing to daily habits like intentional nose breathing, exposure to morning sunlight, and daily movement as examples.
That said, if you’re eager to join the longstanding tradition of traveling to a beautiful destination in the name of wellness, the brain-focused treatments ahead are well worth the journey.
Brain treatments worth traveling for
Photo: Courtesy of The Upper House
Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapies (HBOT) are pressurized environments with increased oxygen, aimed to improve brain function (as well as a host of other purported benefits such as ensuring a stronger immune system and an improved complexion). The use of HBOT in brain-related disorders is pending FDA approval but studies have shown that the treatment can improve cognitive health. Several wellness resorts around the world offer this type of therapy, including The Upper House in Hong Kong, the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland, and newly-opened LIVV Cardiff in California (San Diego’s first private wellness club).
Gut-Brain Programs
“Research emphasizes the critical role of the gut-brain axis in promoting healthy brain aging,” Lorenzl says. Keeping this in mind, many wellness destinations are promoting their nutritional programming as a means of achieving cognitive enhancement. At Lanserhof Tegernsee, comprehensive bloodwork helps to evaluate metabolic and nutritional markers influencing brain health, and a microbiome analysis examines gut health and its impact on cognitive well-being.
Cranial Sacral Massages
Typically referred to as craniosacral therapy, this treatment fall squarely within the ‘alternative medicine’ category (meaning it lacks robust scientific study). Regardless, it’s popping up in some of the most highly regarded wellness destinations around the world, from the newly revamped Mii amo in Sedona to Shou Sugi Ban in Water Mill, New York. The gentle, hands-on technique focuses on the membranes and fluid of the craniosacral system, with the aim of releasing tension in the muscles, membranes, and fascia.
Brain Workshops
Nicknamed ‘The Brain Health Doctor,’ Houde hosts workshops at CIVANA that offer a deep dive into neuroplasticity as well as the neurology of mindfulness. “In my workshops, I guide people to recognize that the brain does not distinguish between good or bad; it simply repeats what it is taught, reinforcing both positive and negative patterns over time,” Houde says, adding that by reshaping these responses, you can “break free from old habits and create healthier, more empowering ones.”
Sound and Light Therapy
The recent rise in “frequency therapy” funnels into the broader shift toward brain health, with subatomic treatments ranging from light therapy to sound baths. At Kamalaya’s Cognitive House, the use of photobiomodulation (low level light therapy) is available as a brain treatment and uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to deliver precise wavelengths of near-infrared (NIR) light, which are then absorbed by the body’s cells. This is intended to improve blood flow to the brain, as well as enhance cognitive clarity.
