An American therapist who specialises in helping people regulate their emotions has named Bath as one of the most effective places for calming the mind. Kaila Hattis, founder of Pacific Coast Therapy, says the Somerset city's unhurried rhythm and architectural charm have a noticeable effect on her patients.
Ms Hattis told the Mirror that Bath's curved Georgian streets and the quieter areas near the Abbey create an immediate sense of calm. She said her own breathing slows within seconds of arriving, and that roughly seven out of ten clients who have travelled to Bath report feeling their bodies relax without making any conscious effort. She described the city as offering people the space to reset themselves in a way that wellness trends often try but fail to replicate.
The city's reputation for relaxation dates back centuries. According to legend, Prince Bladud founded Bath in 890 BC after noticing his pigs rolling happily in warm mud while he was wandering the area in exile. The site later became a destination for bath-house enthusiasts and pilgrims for nearly 2,900 years. Modern visitors can still enjoy the waters at Thermae Bath Spa, which features herbal steam rooms, four thermal pools, and an open-air rooftop pool.
Bath is also celebrated for its 18th-century Georgian architecture, including the Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge, and has gained fame as a filming location for Bridgerton. Other attractions include the restored Cleveland Pools, Britain's oldest lido, the Bath World Heritage Centre, and a central rugby stadium situated beside the river. Ms Hattis also recommended Utrecht for its sunken canals, which she said create a quieter environment, and she often sends entrepreneurs there to help stabilise their moods and reduce spiralling thoughts.
