Who doesn’t like to spend some time relaxing in a sauna? It not only feels great, but it’s also great for you. Your mind and body can benefit from spending 20-30 minutes in the sauna. There has been a lot of research lately looking into the effects of heat and cold on health. It turns out that the stress of hot and cold temperatures has several positive effects on the body. Here are 8 health benefits of relaxing in a sauna.
- Spending time in a sauna can be good for your heart. Time spent in the sauna stresses your heart in a similar manner to cardiovascular exercise. Regular sauna use lowers blood pressure, improves artery health and function, and decreases the risk of heart attack.
- It can be good for your brain. You’re less likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s later in life if you relax in a sauna at least four times per week. The risk of other forms of dementia is also reduced.
- Saunas are great for your skin. Sweating is an effective way of cleaning your skin and flushing out your sweat ducts. All of that liquid flowing out through your pores is good for your skin.
- You might live longer. There’s evidence that regular sauna use increases longevity. This benefit is believed to be related to both the health and social benefits of sauna use.
- Saunas have been shown to help chronic pain. Those suffering from arthritis or other chronic pain conditions report feeling less pain during and after sauna use. Many scientists believe that sauna use reduces inflammation (a major factor in nearly all disease processes) throughout the body.
- Stress relief. Let’s face it, there’s just something enjoyable and relaxing about sitting in warm air. It’s a great way to relax physically and mentally. There are few better ways to end a hard day than sitting in a sauna.
- A sauna session can improve sleep. Studies show that you’ll fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly if you use a sauna regularly. If you struggle with insomnia or suffer from poor sleep quality, using a sauna might be helpful.
- Your social life might improve. No one said that you have to sit in there and sweat all by yourself. A sauna session can be an excellent opportunity to spend time with others and enjoy meaningful conversation. However, there’s also something to be said for the relaxing solitude of spending time alone in the heat.
Saunas are one of the few things that feel good and are also good for you! Your mind, body, and soul all gain benefits from your sauna time. It’s also a great way to connect with others.
High temperatures reduce systemic inflammation and create heat shock proteins. These proteins affect gene activity in ways that promote greater health and greater stress resistance. The science is complicated, but there’s no doubt that responsible sauna use is good for the human body.
There are many options available if you want to use a sauna regularly. Many gyms and health clubs have a sauna available for member use. There are home kits available for purchase that can be assembled that aren’t too expensive. Of course, if you have the necessary budget, there are a multitude of options available to you.
Regardless of how you create the opportunity, make an effort to sit in a sauna a few times each week. It can do wonders for your life.