Meet Arianne O’Donnell, the local mom behind Salt Cave of Darien and a mother of two teenagers. She discovered Salt Therapy when looking for a unique birthday gift for a friend. After trying it, Arianne “was hooked” and later earned her certification as a halotherapist to share “the power of salt.” Find out more about Arianne, her path to opening a business and what she loves to do around town.
How many children do you have and what are their ages?
I have two children—a 17-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter.
What brought you and your family to town?
The schools and amenities, like beaches and parks, were very important to us in choosing a home to raise our kids, and Darien really fit the bill!
What’s your favorite aspect about being part of the community?
We love the size of Darien and that we can run into friends anywhere. It’s a nice small-town feel.
What’s your favorite family activity to do in the area?
We live near Woodland Park, so we love to take family walks with our dog there (who likes the water a little too much. Wet dog!). It is a nice size where you can take a lot of different trails but be able to return home quickly enough.
Can you please tell us a bit about your path to opening the Salt Cave of Darien?
I discovered salt therapy while looking for a unique birthday gift for a friend. I joined her for the occasion, and I was hooked! The benefits were so much more impactful than just a relaxing afternoon with my friend. At the same time, I was also seeking something different from my current career. This was my answer.
Tell us about the health benefits and how your certification as a halotherapist has given you a deeper understanding of the power of salt.
The benefits of halotherapy include anti-inflammatory properties that boost immunity and help with asthma, allergies, respiratory issues, anxiety, joint pain and skin problems leaving you with a feeling of deep relaxation. Finding relief from a health challenge is the priority for many of our clients while others come simply to relax as part of their regular wellness routine.
I wanted to do a deeper dive into the power and science of salt which is why I became a certified halotherapist. It has really given me the “why” behind the salt.
What can individuals who visit expect?
They will enjoy an oasis of peace, calm and serenity. You rest and relax in our anti-gravity chairs during a standard 45-minute cave session. A generator disperses micro-particles of anti-inflammatory salt and calming music plays while you breathe it in normally. You also get chromotherapy from the beautiful pink, orange and reds hues of the salt, which gives a calming effect.
You offer many special events and services. Can you share a bit more?
Salt is universal, but our variety of events and services allows us to cater to many different needs and provide unique experiences. It’s also important to me, as a small business owner, to collaborate with other practitioners and support local businesses.
For those first getting introduced to the Salt Cave, what’s your best piece of guidance to experience the most benefits?
Simply walk into the Cave and you can’t help but reap the benefits! That’s the beauty and power of the Salt, you don’t have to do a thing! Just sit back, breathe deeply and relax.
What’s the best advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
“Give yourself a break.” I did not always follow that advice until I opened the Salt Cave—now I see the value of taking time for myself.
How do you unwind when you need some “me time?”
I love to read, and I love taking baths to relax. The best is when I have enough time to read in the bath!
We love supporting local businesses. Favorite places in town or nearby to…
Have dinner without/with kids: Rory’s or Burgers, Shakes & Fries
Grab a drink with friends: 1020 Post
Spend time together as a family: Woodland Park for family walks with our dog
Shop: Rosey’s
Spa/salon: Darizen
Grab coffee/tea: The lemon ginger tea at Aux Delices is my favorite!
ABOUT SALT CAVE
We are a spa wellness destination with amazing experiences.
Are you looking to relax, refresh, and renew?
Come experience the enchanting Salt Cave of Darien.
Whether you want to release stress, address a health challenge, or gather with friends and family, you’ll find our Cave inviting, warm and soothing.
The Cave is your spa wellness destination with
our rich lineup of therapies to help you
destress, detox and improve your overall health.
Rent the Salt Cave for 75 minutes and use the code “DarienMoms22” to add COMPLIMENTARY reflexology, wine tasting, tarot card or yoga on to your cave rental through December 31, 2022!
Text us at 203-658-7667 to book www.saltcaveofdarien.com, INSTAGRAM & FB saltcaveofdarien