The Benefits of a Sauna

If you’ve ever used a sauna, you know how rejuvenating the experience can be. Whether you prefer to relax after a long workout or treat yourself to an afternoon de-stressing, there are several benefits to using one. Keep reading to find out how much you stand to gain by spending some time in a warm sauna.

Types of Saunas

A sauna is a small enclosed space built with wood. It is heated between 150 and 195 degrees Fahrenheit. Not all saunas are the same; some will provide different benefits than others. That’s great news because you’ll be able to choose the therapy that best suits your preferences and lifestyle.

• Traditional Sauna: A traditional sauna is a small wooden room with heated air. You will often find these in spas, fitness centers, and medical facilities. 
• Infrared Sauna: Infrared saunas work a little differently than traditional saunas. Rather than heating the air itself, an infrared sauna warms you by using infrared light. 

Benefits of Using a Sauna

Using a sauna can be a highly beneficial experience, and for most people, it’s a very safe way to relax and enjoy some time revitalizing. It’s a highly effective way to improve circulation and encourage muscles to loosen up. 

Mental Health Benefits

Using a sauna is excellent for your overall mental health. Taking the time to indulge in self-care is a great way to remind yourself of the importance of being still and healing from the everyday stresses of life. Mental health benefits range from stress reduction to improved mood and less depression.

Skin Health Benefits 

Heat stress from a sauna increases blood flow by widening the blood vessels and allowing you to sweat. When you sweat, your skin is actively disposing of toxins and dead skin cells. As the toxins leave the body, you are left with a clearer and healthier complexion.

Improved Heart Function 

Hyperthermic conditioning as a result of sauna use can reduce several cardiovascular-related issues. Some studies suggest that sauna sessions help the body’s ability to improve vascular compliance, leading to lower chances of experiencing high blood pressure or hypertension. 

Enhanced Muscle Performance 

Sauna helps to alleviate muscle soreness after rigorous exercise, with studies also showing baseline improvements in overall muscle endurance.

When To Use a Sauna 

Using a sauna can impact your body differently depending on when you use it and how. Before hopping in, consider what you most want to get out of your time in the sauna. 

If you’re an athlete, you might use it after your workout to gently encourage your muscles to help relax muscles. It’s also a great way to help repair muscles on rest days since it encourages extra blood flow.

Some people might prefer to use a sauna for pain relief. If you experience chronic pain, using a sauna can encourage relaxation circulation. The calm atmosphere and enveloping warmth are great ways to boost serotonin and endorphins, which can elevate the mood and reduce pain. It’s also great when you’re simply feeling under the weather.

As long as it’s safe for you, you can enjoy some time in a sauna at any point of the day and use it to treat many different ailments.

Sauna Precautions

Using a sauna is very safe, but there are times when you may want to avoid it. You should discuss activities like using a sauna with your doctor before you try them out. Here are a few common risk factors:

• Dehydration
• Changes in blood pressure
• Discomfort
• Airway irritation

Depending on your needs, most side effects are mild, and you might benefit more from a traditional or infrared sauna.

Wrapping Up

Participating in regular sauna sessions offers a multitude of benefits. In addition to enhancing skin and cardiovascular health, steady sauna sessions boost your overall mental health.