We have juice bars, wine bars and coffee bars. What was next in the natural progression? Apparently it was oxygen bars. Since being introduced in the late 90's, it's not a craze limited to "only in America"… in fact, Auckland boasts its own oxygen bar (Spaqua) in the CBD.
If you listen to the advocates they will tell you that the human body is often oxygen deprived, and by giving your body an extra hit it will enhance health and well-being, reduce stress, and can even cure cancer! It is also reported to help with lessening the effects of hangovers, headaches and sinus problems as well as generally relaxing the mind and body.
So, what is the truth? The medical profession will tell you that the opposite is true. As with many fad therapies (not to be confused with alternative medicines), a certain amount of the experienced "benefits" can be attributed to the belief that it will work (i.e. it's all in your head). Who wouldn't feel relaxed after sitting in the peace and quiet, and doing nothing but smelling something nice for 20 minutes?
Biologically speaking, a healthy (non-smoking) person will be at around 95% oxygen saturation at any given time. We take in about 21% oxygen from the air we breathe and at this level; blood is almost completely saturated (99%) meaning there is no medical need for additional oxygen.
The upshot is, if you are healthy and have no breathing difficulties, your body has all of the oxygen it needs…taking in more is like going to the petrol station and trying to fill a tank that is already full. In my opinion, if you are feeling tired and tetchy and are in need of some relaxation, you would get the same benefits from taking a walk in the park for half an hour (free) instead of "paying to breathe".
