The 9 Health Benefits of Infrared Sauna
Who doesn’t like to spend some time relaxing in a sauna? It not only feels great, but it’s also great for you. Your mind and body can benefit from spending 20-30 minutes in the sauna. If you’re not using a sauna regularly, you’re missing out on a pleasurable and beneficial activity.
There has been a lot of research lately looking into the effects of heat and cold on health. The stress of hot and cold temperatures has several positive effects on the body.
A sauna provides physical, emotional, and social benefits, such as:
- Spending time in a sauna can be good for your heart. Studies have shown time spent in the sauna similarly stresses your heart to cardiovascular exercise, which can lower your blood pressure. It improves your blood vessels by making them more flexible and easily adapt to changes in blood pressure. Scientists aren’t sure how this works, but it may be due to an increase in nitric oxide production, which improves blood flow. Research has also shown regular sauna use can reduce oxidative stress in the body, which is associated with improved artery health and function, and decreased risk of a heart attack.
- It can be good for your brain. You’re less likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s later in life if you relax in a sauna at least four times weekly. The risk of other forms of dementia is also reduced.
- Saunas are great for your skin. Sweating is an effective way of cleaning your skin and flushing out your sweat ducts. All that liquid flowing through your pores is good for your skin.
- You might live longer and reduce the frequency of colds. There’s evidence that regular sauna use increases longevity, and there is an association between people who use regular sauna use getting fewer colds. Scientists think it has to do with the increase in mucous production, which helps the body get rid of germs. This benefit is believed to be related to sauna users’ health and social benefits.
- Saunas have been shown to help chronic pain. Studies show those who have arthritis or other chronic conditions report less pain during and after sauna use. Many scientists believe that sauna use reduces inflammation (a significant factor in nearly all disease processes) throughout the body.
- Stress relief. Let’s face it; sitting in warm air is just something enjoyable and relaxing. It’s a great way to relax physically and mentally. There are few better ways to end a hard day than sitting in a sauna.
- A sauna session can improve sleep and mood. Studies have shown you’ll fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly if you use a sauna regularly. It can also improve mood, anxiety and depression in those who have chronic fatigue syndrome. This is due to a decrease in oxidative stress. Using a sauna might be helpful if you struggle with insomnia or poor sleep quality.
- It improves recovery time. Combining sauna use with strength and endurance training can greatly enhance recovery time by improving neural recovery.
- Your social life might improve. No one said you have to sit in there and sweat alone. A sauna session can be an excellent opportunity to spend time with others and enjoy meaningful conversation. However, something must be said for the relaxing solitude of time alone in the heat.
Saunas are among the few things that feel good and suit you! Your mind, body, and soul benefit from your sauna time. It’s also a great way to connect with others.
High temperatures reduce systemic inflammation and create heat shock proteins. These proteins affect gene activity, promoting excellent health and greater stress resistance. The science is complicated, but there’s no doubt that responsible sauna use is good for the human body.
There are many options available if you want to use a sauna regularly. Many gyms and health clubs have a sauna available for member use. Home kits available for purchase that can be assembled are relatively inexpensive. Of course, if you have the necessary budget, many options are available to you.
At Metabodyworks, we offer infrared sauna sessions with the option of guided meditation. Why not try pairing it with a massage treatment to really benefit from infrared therapy?
Regardless of how you create the opportunity, try to sit in a sauna a few times each week. It can do wonders for your life.