Italian Hospitality Collection is launching a new Equilibrium programme designed to reduce internal inflammation and rebalance the body and immune system at its Tuscan spa, Fonteverde.

Set in a 17th century former residence of the Medici family, Fonteverde features a 5,000sq m (53,820sq ft) spa, along with eight thermal soaking pools fed by the nearby San Casciano de Bagni hot springs waters.

The Equilibrium programme uses the PNEI principles, or psycho-neuro-endocrino-immunology, which focus on the relationship between the mind, nervous system, endocrine system and immune system.

The three- and seven-day courses offer a programme of nutritional coaching, cookery classes, fitness classes, relaxation techniques, thermal treatments and physical therapy.

The course is overseen by a team of medical and health professionals led by Dr Nicola Angelo Fortunati. A full medical check-up by a PNEI-trained doctor uses Pneisystem software to provide guests with a PNEI evaluation, score and trackable health results that can be monitored over time.

Blood chemistry tests, urine analysis and pH evaluation, dietology consultation and daily group walks with a personal trainer all feature in the programme.

The nutrition focus on the Equilibrium programme features a Mediterranean microbiotic diet, combined with low-calorie cooking lessons led by a chef and nutritional biologist. During the programme, foods that positively promote microbiotic diversity will be recommended, including foods rich in nutraceuticals, such as roots and berries; foods rich in fibre, such as pulses and wholegrain cereals; and food rich in lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, such as yogurt and miso.

Fitness is carried out in a “fun and gentle manner” and is a large component of the Equilibrium philosophy as a way to eliminate stress and promote a healthy attitude.

Fonteverde’s therapists also teach the rebalancing of the nervous system through respiratory exercises performed in a salt-water bath.

The programme will soon be introduced across Italian Hospitality Collection’s three spa hotels, which also include Chia Laguna in Sardinia and Grotta Giusti in Tuscany.