Sauna Benefits

Not surprisingly, sauna bathers most frequently cite "stress reduction" as the number one benefit of sauna use. Studies show the majority of diseases (e.g. heart disease) are at least partially stress-related. Decades of well-done, peer-reviewed sauna medical research have shown saunas to provide profound health benefits. A 25-year study conducted with more than 2,300 participants at the University of Eastern Finland by Dr. Jari Laukkanen and his colleagues revealed regular sauna use improved cardiovascular health among many other health benefits. In short, regular sauna bathing is a wonderful feel-good and good-for-you addition to your overall health and wellness plan.

In the high temperatures of a traditional or infrared sauna, skin heats up and core body temperature rises. In response to these increased heat levels, the blood vessels near the skin dilate and "cardiac output/circulation" increases. Medical research has told us that the heart rate can rise from 60-70 bpm (beats per minute) to 110-120 bpm in the sauna (140-150 bpm with more intensive bathing), and can often sink to below normal after the cooling off stage. Regular sauna usage has been shown to reduce the risk of all-cause mortality and fatal cardiac incidents along with reduced risk of stroke and hypertension.

Saunas relax muscles and soothe aches and pains in both muscles and joints. Under the high heat provided by a sauna, the body releases endorphins that can minimize pain and are often associated with a "runner's high." As the body temperature rises in the heat of the sauna, blood vessels dilate allowing for increased blood circulation, which in turn speeds the body's natural healing process. After physical activity, use the heat and steam of a sauna to promote muscle relaxation by helping to reduce muscle tension and eliminate lactic acid and other toxins that may be