Does anything feel better than stepping into a cosy warm sauna when it’s cold outside? Regular sauna seshes have been touted as healing for centuries – but how good are they really? We break down the benefits below and what to look out for when jumping in the sauna doesn’t leave you feeling too great.
From the traditional Finnish saunas to our modern-day infrared versions, saunas have been inextricably linked to wellness. But what are the health benefits, really – other than having a good sweat?
The Health Benefits of Saunaing
- Better Cardiovascular Health
Regular sauna seshes have been linked to better heart health. Why? The heat from the sauna causes blood vessels to dilate, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. - Muscle Relaxation and Recovery
Wonder why so many people use the sauna after a good workout? The heat helps to relax muscles and joints, reducing soreness and stiffness. Sauna sessions can also decrease muscle tension and improve flexibility (think hot yoga!). - Reduced Stress
Studies say that regular sauna usage has been linked to lower stress levels – regular sauna use actually reduces levels of cortisol (the stress hormone). Plus, the heat will stimulate and release endorphins (the body’s feel-good chemical). - Glowy Skin
A good sauna sweat sesh can help to clear pores and improve skin health. Dermatology studies show that regular sessions can lead to clear complexions because of the better blood circulation and regular clearing of impurities. - Getting Your Detox On
Sweating is one of your body’s natural ways to detox and a sauna sesh helps to increase sweat production, removing harmful toxins or other other substances from the body. - Boost Your Immunity
The heat exposure from saunas causes an increase in white blood cell production, which helps the body fight off infections. Research in the Annals of Medicine indicated that frequent sauna users had a lower incidence of common colds and other infections.
It’s important to keep in mind that you should not go to the sauna if you’re ill or dehydrated and take caution not to stay in a sauna for too long a time period. While these sessions can be good for your skin, some eczema and rosacea sufferers may experience worsened symptoms from sauna sessions.
Not sure? If you have any existing health issues, it’s advisable to discuss including sauna sessions into your regimen with your medical doctor.