Emerging Trends and Technological Innovations in Relaxation Therapies – A Bibliometric Analysis
Keywords:
Relaxation Therapies, Steam Bath, Sauna Bath, Whirlpool Bath, Technological Innovation, Bibliometric Analysis, Wellness, HydrotherapyAbstract
This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research publications focusing on relaxation therapies, specifically steam baths, sauna baths, and whirlpools, spanning 2000 to 2024. It aims to address the gap in systematically analysing publication trends, influential research clusters, and technological innovations within this rapidly evolving field. The Scopus database was utilized to identify pertinent publications related to relaxation therapies and technological advancements by applying targeted keywords. VOS viewer software (version 1.6.18) was employed to generate bibliometric maps and network visualizations, drawing upon citation data, co-authorship relationships, and patterns of keyword co-occurrence. The results indicate a notable increase in research output, particularly following 2009, with a significant expansion observed from 2018 to 2024. In recent years, a greater emphasis has been placed on technological innovations in traditional relaxation therapies. Citation analysis has pinpointed influential publications, with Everett (2018) achieving the highest citation count of 561. Subject area analysis reveals that while Medicine remains predominant (57.5%), the field is increasingly characterized by multidisciplinary engagement, encompassing health professions, biochemistry, genetics, environmental science, and engineering. Keyword co-occurrence analysis delineated five distinct clusters derived from 3,549 extracted keywords, emphasizing thematic research areas. Geographically, the United States is at the forefront of research output, followed by Germany and China, which demonstrate a global involvement in relaxation therapy research. The findings highlight the dynamic evolution of research in relaxation therapies, marked by an escalating scientific interest, interdisciplinary methodologies, and an increasing incorporation of technological innovations within traditional therapeutic practices. This trend resonates with broader movements in the global wellness industry and complementary approaches to health and well-being.
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