When you think of sauna, what comes to mind? If you’re like most people, you probably picture a small room with a bench, where you sit and get hot and sweaty. However, sauna therapy is much more than that. Sauna therapy is a centuries-old practice that has been used for a variety of health benefits. Today, sauna therapy is popular and effective for many people.
Here are some of the benefits of sauna therapy:
- Saunas are beneficial for the heart. Saunas increase the heart rate and cause blood vessels to expand, which can lower blood pressure and improve circulation. The increased blood flow can also help clear out any cholesterol buildup that may be present in the arteries.
- Saunas soothe sore muscles and joints. Hot temperatures combined with a lack of oxygen can create an environment where lactic acid buildup in your muscles is reduced and inflammation is reduced as well. This helps relieve pain and soreness in your joints and muscles, especially after exercise or physical activity.
- Saunas are good for detoxification of your body’s systems. When you sit in a hot sauna, toxins are released through your skin and sweat glands as a result of increased perspiration during this process — which is why you will start seeing beads of sweat on your forehead within minutes after entering the steam room or sauna!
- Relief from depression and anxiety disorders. Regular sauna use can be an effective treatment for depression and anxiety disorders because it causes the brain to release endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers that promote feelings of happiness and relaxation.
- Sweating is similar to exercising in that it releases toxins from your body while increasing circulation to your skin. These two factors work together to help improve your skin’s appearance and make you feel more energetic. The sauna’s effects on the body are similar to those of exercise; however, it induces sweating and flushing without having to move. This is why it’s important to drink lots of water before and after using the sauna.
