All Around Pennsauken

By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor

After the passing of both her brother and mother, Krystal Vargas was looking for a more holistic outlet to deal with her depression. The Pennsauken resident turned to meditation, which turned out to be a life-changing decision. Now a certified Reiki master and meditation guide, Vargas went from offering classes out her yard and garage during the pandemic, to opening the Himalayan Salt Cave and Café by BeYoutifully Balanced on Haddonfield Rd. in Pennsauken.

“I wanted to take what I had learned to help others,” explained Vargas. “Himalayan Salt Cave and Café is a one-stop shop. We offer a variety of natural and holistic health services to help people achieve optimum wellness. Our team is dedicated to helping you feel your best inside and out.”

Those looking to participate in salt therapy will find a warmly lit room with beach scene, with finely ground 100 percent pure Himalayan salt imported from Pakistan. According to WebMD, ‌halotherapy, or salt therapy, involves breathing in air with tiny salt particles to improve your breathing. The therapy can also help individuals relax and may help with skin conditions and allergies.

“Our cave incorporates salt that is fine like sand,” says Vargas. “It helps people think of the beach and relax.”

Deputy Mayor Patrick Olivo and Mayor Vince Martinez were on hand for the grand opening of Pennsauken’s Himalayan Salt Cave and Café by BeYoutifully Balanced.

Additional services include meditation classes; Reiki, a gentle healing practice that promotes relaxation and balance; yoga for all levels; and rebounding fitness, aerobic exercise performed while jumping on a mini trampoline. And at the café, customers can purchase Himalayan salt, as well as crystals. They also offer herbal hot teas and coffee imported from Puerto Rico.

“My Puerto Rican heritage is very important to me,” explained Krystal. “You’ll see a lot of Taino Indian inspired artwork throughout our facility. There are also pictures featuring ceremonies that honor our ancestors.  

Vargas’ business offers one of the only traditional Himalayan Salt Caves in South Jersey, let alone the state. There are other similar businesses, but they are located farther away in Malvern, Boyerstown, and Manalapan.

“It’s exciting. I’m just filled with gratitude because I know of the potential of this place and how many people who I’m going to be able to help.”

“We have a lot of unique places in Pennsauken, and the Himalayan Salt Cave and Café is no exception,” said Pennsauken Mayor Vince Martinez, who was on hand for the business’ ribbon cutting. “We wish Krystal nothing but success and invite our resident to come on over and get some relaxation.”

Himalayan Salt Cave and Café by BeYoutifully Balanced is located at 2673 Haddonfield Rd. in Pennsauken. For more information about their services, visit https://himalayansaltcavenj.com or call (856) 543-2341.