Saunas: What’s so hot about this “trend”?

You may have heard of saunas before, but how much do you actually know about saunas? Did you know that regular sauna usage provides numerous health benefits, both physical and mental? Saunas can be a simple and relaxing way to really upgrade your wellness routine that is backed by lots of scientific research! Researchers have determined that regular sauna bathing can boost cardiovascular health, detoxify your body of heavy metals, improve muscle function and recovery time, boost immunity, and improve mood/mental health (plus so much more).

What are the cardiovascular health benefits? Research has shown that those who regularly sauna bathe are at lower risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even have a chance at living longer. Sauna use can also help individuals who suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) due to the way heat exposure works to ease inflammation, reduce stress, and decrease blood pressure through vasodilation (the reduction of stiffness in the arteries).

In addition, few people realize that we all have buildup of heavy metals within our bodies. Mercury, cadmium, lead, and even arsenic all buildup within our bodies due to continuous exposure through breathing, water, and food due to an increase in industrial and anthropogenic activities. The heat of saunas cause us to release these toxins by penetrating our exterior and heating our core temperature causing us to sweat them out.

Yet another benefit is improved muscle function and muscular recovery time. The stimulation from the heat exposure of the sauna can reduce the amount of damage to cells post-workout and actually boost protein synthesis, stimulating muscle growth. Some people have actually said that they also have less post-workout soreness when they sauna bathe regularly after training sessions!

But we’re not done yet! The benefits extend even further! There are numerous more health benefits we could discuss (more on that next time), but let’s touch on some aesthetic benefits. How about beauty benefits? There are plenty! Regular sessions can assist with skin cell regeneration, open and detox pores, boost collagen and elastin production to help skin become more elastic, and even tighten skin to give individuals a more youthful complexion. Saunas really are great for anti-aging and overall skin health!

And what about mental benefits? Those who regularly and frequently use a sauna are said by researchers to be at a lower risk of developing psychological diseases like dementia, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer’s. Aside from prevention of these diseases, stress levels are lower and a hot session in the sauna can release endorphins (or happy chemicals) within the brain leaving you feeling more positive, relaxed, and happy! The release of hormones helps to ease depression and anxiety.

We’re not sure about you, but all of the benefits and all the research out there to back up the science behind saunas… we’re convinced this ‘trend’ deserves to be HOT! We’re going to be getting our sauna sessions in and get some more information ready for you on the numerous other benefit! Until next time!

Stay healthy! Stay well!​