7 Benefits of Sauna Usage
What’s the big deal with sauna usage?
For years, doctors have said saunas can help fight illness and keep your immune system healthy. Whether it can help with the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, remains to be seen.
But, if you are soaking alone, it sure can make you feel better and release toxins from your body.
If you haven’t ever used one before, the idea of sitting in a small, hot box, with semi-naked people dripping in sweat may leave you skeptical. But, we assure you, once you’ve tried it, you’ll love the benefits of sauna usage.
Why? Saunas relieve muscle aches and pain, refresh your skin and much more. Let’s explore the benefits of sauna usage. Check out our overview below and then download this complete guide>
#1: Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer’s
According to Finnleo, a 20-year study conducted with more than 2,300 participants at the University of Eastern Finland by Dr. Jari Laukkanen and his colleagues revealed regular sauna use (4-7 times per week) at 176 degrees F for 19 minutes lowered the risk for both Alzheimer’s andDementia.
The control group for the study seldom, if ever, used sauna (0-1 times per week).
#2: Alleviate Pain
Sauna usage relaxes muscles and soothes pain.The sauna’s heat makes the body release endorphins. This can have a mild, tranquilizing effect that can minimize the pain of arthritis and muscle soreness from your last workout.
When your body temp rises in the sauna, your blood vessels dilate, increasing ciruclation. This increased blood flow speeds up your body’s natural healing process and soothes your aches and pains.
A great time to use a sauna is after a physical activity. It promotes muscle relaxation by eliminating lactic acid and other toxins that may be present.
#3: Relieve Stress
Most sauna bathers say the number one reason they use a sauna is for stress reduction.
Stress negatively affects our lives and our health. Many of us succumb to stress-related diseases such as heart disease. The use of a sauna can quiet our minds and relax our bodies. We can step away from outside distractions.
Finnleo Spas likes to say, “Step into a Finnleo sauna, and close the door on the rest of the world.”
We agree. Try a sauna today and see if you feel the wonderful after-sauna glow.
#4: Improve Cardiovascular Performance
Because saunas are known to reduce, they also can help prevent stress related issues such as heart disease since it can be stress related.
Sauna bathing can provide a quiet space without distractions to relax and relieve stress. The heat can relax your muscles, thus improving your circulation and stimulating the release of your endorphins (the body’s natural feel-good chemical).
What’s more, according to Finnleo, saunas:
- Reduced the risk of all-cause mortality & fatal cardiac incidents (heart attacks). Using sauna 2-3 times per week at 174 degrees F reduces risk of Fatal Cardiovascular Disease by 27% and 4-7 times per week reduces risk by 50%
- Reduced the risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) with regular sauna use. A three-month study of bi-weekly sauna use showed reduced occurrence of high blood pressure.
- Long-term sauna use and aerobic exercise are associated with improved arterial compliance, which means the arteries are healthier and better able to handle additional stresses.
- Sauna use increases the heart rate similar to aerobic exercise with the heart rate ranging between 120-150 beats per minute.
#5: Cleanse Your Skin
The heat of the sauna makes your body produce sweat which in turn cleanses your skin and replaces your dead skin cells. This keep your skin in tip-top shape.
When you sweat in the sauna, your sweat rinses bacteria out of your pores and sweat ducts. Your skin will look and feel softer.
The minerals in your sweat help maintain collagen structure in your skin thus “plumping up” tiny wrinkles. Regular time spent in the sauna can help keep your skin younger looking. It can also help with your acne by cleaning out your pores.
#6: Sleep Better
Many sauna bathers experience a deep sleep after bathing in the calming heat. Try it for yourself!
#7: Fight Illness
Medical research shows that saunas were able to significantly reduce the incidences of colds and influenza among participants. As the body is exposed to the heat of a sauna and steam (in the case of traditional saunas), it produces white blood cells more rapidly, which in turn helps to fight illnesses and helps to kill viruses. In addition, saunas can relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of sinus congestion from colds or allergies.
Final Thoughts
Besides the obvious fact that saunas feel good, they’re also good for you. You’ll experience physical and mental benefits from sauna bathing. As you go through week after week of work stress and family commitments, take some time in your very own sauna retreat and relax and restore your body, mind, and soul.
Want to learn more? Contact us today!
* Please contact your doctor before soaking in a sauna.
