Health benefits of sauna

Heat has the power to heal in so many ways, thanks to the body's ability to respond to it. Sweat production, heart rate increases, hormone releases, and more are all ways the body positively reacts to heat. And each response, whether physiological or psychological, offers profound health benefits for your heart, brain, skin, muscles, joints, mental health, emotional well-being, and the list goes on. 

The sauna heat combined with your preferred ambiance creates a powerfully relaxing, rejuvenating, healing and therapeutic space. As you settle in, the heat takes over and nourishes your body and mind. In short, regular sauna bathing is a wonderful, feel-good and good-for-you addition to your overall health and wellness plan. 

Medical research shows that sauna bathing may also aid in reducing risk associated with high blood pressure, stroke, and all-cause mortality and fatal cardiac incidents. 

In response to high temperatures, core body temperature rises - dilating skin and increasing cardiac output/circulation. Similar to the physiological responses produced by exercise, the higher temperatures of a sauna may also cause the heart rate to rise, from 60-70 bpm to 110-120bpm (140-150 bpm with more intensive bathing). Increased heart rate helps circulate oxygen and blood to your muscles faster, lowering cholesterol and increasing calories burned. 

Heat bathing is one of the oldest health and beauty strategies in terms of cleansing one's skin. When the body begins to produce sweat via deep sweating, the skin is then cleansed and dead skin cells are replaced - keeping your skin in good working condition. 

Sweating flushes out dirt and bacteria from the epidermal layer while leaving heind a minimal amount of beneficial oils. Cleansing of the pores has been shown to improve capillary circulation, while giving the skin a softer-looking appearance and healthy glow. Regular sauna use can help purify the body from the inside out. 

Sauna relaxes muscles and soothes aches/pains in both muscles and joints. Under the high-heat of a sauna, the body releases endorphins which can minimize pain. Also, as the body temperature rises in the heat of the sauna, blood vessels dilate allowing for increased blood circulation, which in turn speeds up the body's natural healing process. After physical activity, allow the heat and steam of a sauna to promote muscle relaxation by reducing muscle tension and eliminating lactic acid and other toxins that may be present. 

Many studies have shown that regular sauna use with löyly and certain aromatheraphy oils can benefit those with sinus congestion and infections. Additionally, people with lung and respiratory issues have experienced improved respiratory function and ease of breathing during and after sauna use. 

German sauna medical research shows that saunas were able to significantly reduce the incidences of colds and influenza among study participants. As the body is exposed to the heat of a sauna and steam (in the case of traditional sauna), it produces white blood cells more rapidly, which in turn helps to fight illnesses and ill viruses. In addition, saunas can relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of sinus congestion from colds or allergies. 

Now that you know sauna is good for you, you should also know it just feels good, too. Whether it's the physiological changes that occur during the warmth of a sauna, or simply the time spent in the calming and still retreat, every seasoned sauna bather agrees - it feels wonderful! As we progress through our everyday lives, the sauna provides a pampering retreat - where we can relax and restore body and soul. It's the best addition to your personal self-care routine.