When you think of saunas, what images come to mind? In Finland(where the word sauna comes from), the sauna is seen as “the place” where Swedes and Finns come together to relax, socialize, de-stress, and detoxify. While they have been used for centuries, modern technology has brought new sauna innovations to the mainstream, and modern saunas are no longer the “out of sight, out of mind” contraptions they used to be.
Saunas, sometimes referred to as sweat lodges, are one of the most popular methods people use to improve their health. A sauna is typically a room or enclosed cabinet heated to a temperature of 150 F (65 C) or higher. The primary purpose of a sauna is to promote sweating, enhance blood circulation, relax the muscles, and detoxify the body.
Saunas and its Health benefits
Here are some of the health benefits that going to saunas can give you:
Burns off calories
Saunas have been used for centuries as a natural way to purify the body and rejuvenate the soul. While it is not a new invention, it has only recently been adopted as a mainstream health practice. Studies have proven that not only does sweating in a sauna help you lose water weight, but it can also help you burn calories as a side effect. The sweating itself helps to raise your body temperature, which burns up calories. The high temperature of the sauna can also speed up wound healing, improve circulation, and help you relax.
Opens up your sinuses
Saunas have been around for centuries, but only recently have people begun to understand the health benefits of using them. The sauna is widely considered a “steam room on steroids” that stimulates sweat and cleanses the body. And according to some studies, opening the sinuses is one of its health benefits of it.
Improves blood circulation
The benefits of regular sauna use extend beyond helping you relax. It may improve circulation, lower your blood pressure (hypertension), and increase the effects of other cardiovascular exercises.
Reduce joint pain
Saunas offer a retreat for relaxation and potential health benefits, making them a boon for those grappling with joint pain. The dry heat provides relief by soothing muscles and improving flexibility, making it particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis. However, it’s essential to exercise caution, as prolonged exposure to high temperatures may pose risks, especially for those with cardiovascular issues. To complement your joint care routine, consider incorporating deep tissue massage done by a qualified masseuse (a quick online search for “massage near me” should get you the info you need) followed by a steam bath or sauna to enhance your overall well-being.
Lessens your stress
Recent research has confirmed that saunas can also play an important role in preventing and treating certain diseases, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. While medical supervision is necessary to safely use a sweat lodge, sauna, or steam room, research has revealed that those who regularly work out in a sauna are healthier, happier, and more productive.
Better skin health
Skin care is part of overall well-being. Poor skin health can indicate health problems elsewhere in the body. So, it is important to take care of your skin from the outside and inside. Saunas are an important part of skin health. The Health benefits of saunas include detoxification, anti-stress, pain relief, and cardiovascular benefits.
Great for workout recovery
Saunas have long been known to be relaxing, and as part of sauna therapy, they have also been known to promote recovery after intense workouts. The therapeutic effect of the infrared heat that radiates from saunas is known to reduce sore muscle soreness, promote faster recovery times, and reduce swelling.
Saunas have been around for quite some time, but only recently have the health benefits of saunas been discovered and verified. Most people are too busy to go to a gym or health club or even exercise at home. But they aren’t just for athletes. They’re also a great way to relax, unwind, de-stress, and go about your day with more energy.
Can You Get a Sauna at Home?
Creating a sauna experience at home has become increasingly popular for those seeking to enjoy the numerous health benefits associated with regular sauna use. Home saunas come in various forms, from traditional wood-burning saunas to modern infrared sauna setups. Many companies offer compact and easy-to-install sauna kits, making it feasible to have a sauna in the convenience of your own residence.
However, it’s crucial to consider the potential risks, such as improper installation leading to electrical hazards or inadequate ventilation leading to mold growth. Speaking with professionals who specialize in home health and safety measures, including those who provide mold testing in Monterey, CA, or elsewhere, can be valuable in ensuring that your home sauna is not only a source of relaxation and health benefits but also a safe and mold-free environment. Proper maintenance and periodic checks can contribute to a positive and healthy sauna experience in the comfort of your home.
Other Stuff to Know
On the other side of the Sauna…
Saunas have long been associated with health benefits. Studies show that they can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, improve circulation, boost your immune system, relieve pain, and even treat certain medical conditions. However, they also come with risks, such as burns and skin damage, and you should not use them if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or a heart condition, are pregnant, are overweight, have diabetes, or are on medication, as they could interfere with your body’s response.
Before you go to the sauna…
Saunas are a fantastic way to improve your health, but they can be dangerous. You should never go into a sauna without supervision and always wear loose-fitting clothes, so you don’t overheat. Beyond that, though, you need to know a few other things before you use it.
For starters, you should make sure your sauna is very well maintained. This means a thoroughly cleaned environment and, ideally, a damp heat environment. The hotter, the better, but too much heat can damage your skin. Moreover, saunas are places that can get high humidity, and unchecked moisture in the air can lead to unwanted situations like mould growth, which can be very harmful to your health. Mould growth in any space should be dealt with immediately, and that can be done best with the help of Mould Specialists in the area. If left unchecked, it can not only harm an individual’s health but also the entire sauna due to its spread. Hence, it is important to get the sauna cleaned on a regular basis and avoid situations like these.
Also, there are many types of saunas to choose from, and they all offer different advantages and disadvantages. But before you pick one, make sure you know what you’re getting into. Doing your homework like researching about it will help you to have a relaxing day at the sauna.