Heat therapy has been in use for thousands of years to not only cleanse the body and maintain general physical health, but also to promote relaxation and rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. Sauna bathing in particular has been almost ritualistic in several cultures as the preferred source for promoting and renewing overall health and well-being.
Using modern technology and construction techniques, it is now possible for almost anyone to take advantage of the many benefits of a sauna or steam shower within the comfort and privacy of their own home. Here The Sauna House has compiled the major health benefits to consider when deciding on the purchase of a sauna. But also keep in mind that not only will the regular use of a sauna significantly improve your health, but that it feels great as well.
Detoxification
Synthetic and organic substances that are foreign to our bodies exist in abundance within our environment. They are in the air we breathe in the form of industrial and automotive pollution, in the food we eat in the form of preservatives and pesticides, and even in our chemically treated water that we drink, bathe and brush our teeth with. The expulsion of these substances, known as "detoxification", has in the last few years gained recognition in the medical community as an important factor in promoting health and even in the treatment and prevention of several chronic illnesses. Sauna heat therapy stimulates the bodies natural cleansing processes to help release toxins and bodily contaminants that have accumulated in cellular tissues. These contaminants are then channeled out through the lymphatic system and perspiration.
Cardiovascular
A typical 30 minute sauna heat therapy session can have the effect of a light cardiovascular workout. As the body works to cool itself, the metabolic/heart rate increases and blood vessels dilate improving cardiovascular circulation. Both traditional and infrared saunas are a good alternative for people who find it difficult or are unable to exercise. In fact, NASA conducted experiments in the 1980's that suggested infrared as a good way to maintain cardiovascular fitness during space flight.
Weight Loss
Although water weight lost through perspiration is quickly regained, the fat conversion or "burn" due to the increased metabolism can be up to 600 calories per sauna session. Also, detoxifying the body can improve the digestive tract and metabolic performance which will assist in weight loss.
Immune System
Hippocrates once said "give me a fever and I can cure any disease." Although this may have been somewhat of an overstatement, fever is the bodies natural response to combat many illnesses. A sauna session will raise bodily temperature by up to 3 degrees, creating a temporary fever-like state. This triggering of the bodies immune defenses can help fight and prevent illness, and speed the healing process of minor injuries.
Stress
Sauna heat therapy is an ideal way to relieve stress and improve sleep patterns. It now goes without question that stress is a latent precipitator and even cause of many chronic diseases. By relaxing the muscles and improving circulation, a sauna session reduces stress and promotes mental and physical well-being.
Skin Cleansing
During a sauna session heat causes pores to open, and sweat flushes away dirt, oil, bacteria, and makeup. This will lead to an improved complexion with regular sauna use. In addition, many reports suggest that cellulite, composed of subcutaneous fat, water and wastes, can be reduced since fat becomes water soluble at 110°F and can pass through the skin with sweat as well.
Pain Relief
By dilating blood vessels, improving circulation, and easing muscle tension a sauna can provide relief from the pain of many different physical ailments. In particular, irritation and discomfort from various forms of arthritic, muscle, shoulder, neck and back pain can be significantly reduced. With regular sauna use, these effects can be continual.
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