A traditional sauna is a small room or house designed to produce a dry heat of up to 185°F. There are many types of saunas, including steam saunas, infrared saunas, and Finnish saunas, but a traditional sauna usually uses heated rocks to create high heat and low humidity. For thousands of years, different cultures around the world have been using saunas for their health benefits. In this blog post, we will explore some of the ways that using a traditional sauna can improve your health.
Saunas can improve cardiovascular health
When your body is exposed to the heat of a traditional sauna, your heart rate increases, which can lead to improved cardiovascular health. According to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, men who used a sauna 2-3 times a week had a 27% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to men who used a sauna once a week or less. The heat of the sauna also increases blood flow, which can reduce blood pressure and improve circulation.
Saunas can boost your immune system
When you sit in a sauna, your body produces more white blood cells, which can help to fight infections and diseases. In addition to this, the heat of a sauna can also trigger the production of heat shock proteins, which can prevent cellular damage and boost your immune system.
Saunas can help to reduce stress and improve mental health
When you sit in a sauna, your body releases endorphins, which can have a relaxing and calming effect. The heat of the sauna can also help to reduce cortisol levels, which are often elevated when you are under stress. This can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
Saunas can assist with weight loss and diabetes management
When you sit in a sauna, your body burns calories as it works to regulate your body temperature. A study published in the Journal of Human Kinetics found that using a sauna for 15 minutes a day, 5 days a week, can lead to a decrease in body fat, weight, and waist circumference. Saunas can also improve insulin sensitivity, which may help to prevent or manage diabetes.
Saunas can help to detoxify your body
When you sweat in a sauna, your body releases toxins and impurities through your skin. This process can help to cleanse your body and improve your overall health. According to a study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health, sweating in a sauna can help to remove heavy metals and chemicals from your body, which can have a positive impact on your health.
Conclusion:
There are many health benefits to using a traditional sauna, from improving cardiovascular health to assisting with weight loss and diabetes management. Regular sauna use can also help to reduce stress, boost your immune system, and detoxify your body. If you are interested in experiencing the health benefits of a traditional sauna, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before getting started. It is important to stay well-hydrated, avoid alcohol and drugs, and limit your time in the sauna to no more than 30 minutes at a time. With these precautions in place, a traditional sauna can be a safe and effective way to support your overall health and wellbeing.
