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Why Sit In A Sauna?
Health | November 15, 2014
A typical trip to the spa often involves some time spent in the sauna – that dry, hot room with a soaring temperature of up to 185 degrees. For many, this dry heat is relaxing and invigorating while for others it may just be a ridiculously hot room! Though you may get hot and bothered for all the wrong reasons, there are some legitimately good reasons to sit in a sauna. However, I wouldn’t say using a sauna is absolutely necessary and it’s definitely not a substitute for working out, but if one is available it does offer some benefits.
Unfortunately, there are not a lot of studies backed by legitimate research that clearly demonstrate the benefits of using saunas yet (though there are some). Much of the current evidence is based around the sauna’s use in various cultures such as its historic prevalence in Finland and Scandinavia.
Dr. Luke Fortnoy, an assistant professor of family medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, also offers some insight on the benefits of using saunas. In fact, Dr. Fortnoy frequently recommends using saunas for many of his patients and is a firm proponent of their therapeutic qualities. Dr. Fortnoy believes that saunas can lower blood pressure, relieve muscle tension and have a detoxifying effect, especially for our skin health.
Echoing one of the main reasons that saunas are in a frequent use in places like Finland and Scandinavia, Dr. Fortnoy also states: “It’s also a healthy way to bathe because it releases different toxins, so there are hygienic benefits. Not to mention, it relaxes the mind.”
Personally, one of the reasons that I find saunas and steam rooms to be beneficial is that they just feel good. They can be quite relaxing and often soothe my sore muscles. Do any of you guys use a sauna frequently? What are your thoughts on the benefits of using one?
Private Member |
I really enjoy the sauna for the benefits of my skin I got a few compliments and I definitely give the credit to the sauna and steam room 🙂
Private Member |
I have the feeling that sauna releases hidden flues:) but thats probably a good thing in the long term.
Private Member |
los angeles, ca, usa
I prefer steam room than sauna. I’m suffocating on dry heat. I have access in a gym for both but due to limited parking time, I rarely use them. Maybe, I should go back doing that because that’s really feels good. It’s relaxing and feels good on the skin. 🙂
Private Member |
uk
I love them but only in winter. Never in summer. Its great for skin, almost like workout:)
Private Member |
williasmport, pennsylvania, united states
You just inspired me to go again. I struggle drinking enough water and the sauna or steam room get me drinking tons and then I just keep it going thorought the day. I agree with the skin and relaxation benefits. It is meditating for me, calm and just a time to just sit and think nothing
Private Member |
melbourne, australia
I love sauna! But some time ago I dixcovered for myself infrared sauna. You can read about yhis thing in the Internet. It is has a great detoxifing effect.
Private Member |
I regularly have a sauna. I love how my skin looks afterwards and how good the warmth feels after working out.
Private Member |
perth, wa, australia
Hi I have a Far Infra Red Sauna in my Day spa… it is better than a steam one as it doesn’t suffocate you with heavy thick steam, it uses infra red waves to penetrate two to three inches into your skin tissue which is far more beneficial than steam saunas. Steam saunas heat your body from the outside as the infra red sauna starts heating from the inside releasing 30% more heavy metal and toxins from the body. It is also very good for people who suffer from Arthritis, joint pains, Dermatitis etc…the list is endless! The regular use of saunas bring huge benefits not only to your skin, hair, muscles but also for general health and wellbeing. Whenever I get a chance I’m in it.. Lucky me! 🙂
Private Member |
My mother loves them. I on the other hand freak out in them. Maybe it’s the dry heat and enclosed room makes me claustrophobic.
Private Member |
helsinki, finland
Hi Zuzka! I’m using a sauna every week. I’m from Finland, so it’s really our “thing” here. And you are right, sauna helps a lot if my muscles are sore, and tight. I actaually stretching in sauna too. It feels great and it’s even easier when you feel sore. Thank you so much for your great new website – this is so great, Everything is easy to find and you have made everything look good and nice, I really love your own website! Can’t wait to get to the new week with your workouts. You are the best! Xoxo, Satu