Introduction

Have you ever stepped into a sauna and feel your state completely transform? That enveloping warmth isn't just melting away your daily stress; it's kicking off a cascade of health benefits that are becoming more common knowledge. No matter what state you enter in, for me it has always had a very positive effect mentally and physically.

The sauna possesses some serious health benefits proven by science. In research conducted by Rhonda P. Patrick and Teresa L. Johnson, findings indicated a significant reduction in death rates linked to sauna usage frequency. Specifically, men who used the sauna once a week experienced a 27% decrease in mortality rates. Even more striking, those who used the sauna 4 to 7 times per week saw a 40% reduction in the risk of death.

Here are some other health stats from the study:

1. Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease: Sauna use 4–7 times/week: 66% lower risk of dementia and 65% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease compared to once weekly.
2. Endurance Improvement: Post-workout sauna sessions twice a week: 32% increase in time until exhaustion for athletes.
3. Muscle Atrophy Prevention: Local heat application: 37% decrease in muscle atrophy compared to a placebo treatment.
4. Plasma Volume and Erythrocytes: Improvements were accompanied by a 7.1% increase in plasma volume (fluid component of blood) and a 3.5% increase in erythrocytes (red blood cells).
5. Sperm Count and Motility: Two sauna sessions per week for 3 months: Reduction in sperm count and motility, reversible after 6 months of discontinuing use. 

In this article we will explore the 13 health benefits of being in a sauna. It is more than just a relaxing pastime—it’s a powerful too to improve health.

History of Saunas

The tradition of saunas is ancient, stemming from the need for warmth and cleanliness. Originating in Finland over a millennium ago, the sauna was a place to bathe, socialise, and find solace from the biting Nordic cold. Built from the earth and heated with stones, these early saunas were central to Finnish life, serving as a space for healing and relaxation. 

As centuries passed, the practice spread throughout Europe, adapting to local customs, yet the essence remained the same—a tranquil retreat promoting health and well-being. Today, this cherished tradition continues is now popular across the world.

The Different Types of Saunas

There are quite an array of different type's of saunas, to keep things simple we will focus on 4 of the main ones.

The Main Health Benefits of Dry Sauna

1. Higher Temperatures for Intense Sweating: Dry saunas operate at higher temperatures than most other saunas, such as infrared. This intense heat leads to more profuse sweating, which can aid in more effective detoxification and cleansing of the skin.

2. Better Respiratory Relief: The dry air in these saunas is often preferred by individuals with certain respiratory issues, as it can help clear sinuses and congestion without the humidity that might be uncomfortable for some respiratory conditions.

3. Deep Muscle Penetration: The high heat of a dry sauna can penetrate muscles and tissues deeply, providing relief from muscle stiffness and joint pain, potentially more effectively than lower-temperature saunas.

4. Traditional Sauna Experience: The dry sauna offers a traditional sauna experience, which some users find more mentally and emotionally satisfying. This can enhance the overall relaxation and stress-relief benefits.

5. Adaptation and Endurance: Regular use of a dry sauna, due to its higher temperatures, can help the body adapt to heat stress. This adaptation may improve endurance in other high-temperature environments.

The Main Benefits of Steam Sauna

1. Improved Respiratory Function: The high humidity in steam saunas is excellent for respiratory health. It helps clear congestion, sinuses, and can alleviate symptoms of conditions like asthma and bronchitis.

2. Skin Hydration: Unlike dry saunas, steam rooms provide a moist heat that hydrates the skin, which can be beneficial for those with dry skin conditions.

3. Detoxification at Lower Temperatures: Steam rooms operate at lower temperatures than dry saunas but the high humidity makes you sweat profusely, aiding in detoxification similar to higher temperature saunas.

4. Muscle Relaxation: The moist heat is effective for relaxing stiff muscles and joints, providing relief from soreness and improving flexibility.

5. Stress Relief and Relaxation: The warm, moist environment of a steam sauna can be particularly relaxing and soothing for the mind and body, offering a different kind of stress relief compared to dry heat saunas.

6. Improved Circulation: Like other saunas, steam rooms can improve circulation, but the moist heat can be more comfortable for some individuals, allowing them to stay in longer and reap more circulatory benefits.

The Health Benefits of an Infrared Sauna

1. Deeper Tissue Penetration: Infrared saunas use infrared light to penetrate more deeply into the skin, which can provide more effective muscle relaxation and pain relief, reaching areas that traditional saunas might not as effectively.

2. Lower Temperatures: Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures than traditional dry saunas, making them more accessible and comfortable for people who cannot tolerate high heat, including those with certain medical conditions.

3. Enhanced Detoxification: The deep penetration of infrared heat is believed to promote more effective detoxification at the cellular level, as it induces a more profound sweat at a lower ambient temperature.

4. Improved Circulation: The deep heating effect of infrared rays can stimulate blood flow and improve circulation, potentially more effectively than the superficial heat of a traditional sauna.

5. Weight Loss and Metabolism: Some studies suggest that the type of heat produced by an infrared sauna can aid in weight loss and boost metabolism, as the body works harder to cool itself, thereby burning more calories.

6. Skin Health: The gentle heating of infrared saunas can help with skin purification and rejuvenation, potentially more effectively than the high heat of traditional saunas, which might be too intense for sensitive skin.

13 Health Benefits of Being in a Sauna: Proven By Science

1.  Cardiovascular Health 

Saunas mimic the effects of light to moderate exercise by increasing heart rate and improving circulation, which can lead to better cardiovascular endurance and health. Studies have shown health benefits such as lower blood pressure and enhanced heart function.

Health Benefits:

• Improved blood circulation, enhanced cardiovascular health and blood vessel dilation.

• Scientific Study:  Regular sauna bathing is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension and coronary artery disease, by improving endothelial function and blood pressure. The study titled "Cardiovascular and Other Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing, used a Finnish sauna, which are typically dry saunas with high temperatures and low humidity and can be heated by a wood or electric stove.

2.  Sauna for Stress Relief & Mental Health
 

Anyone who frequently uses the sauna knows about the sauna benefits for stress reduction; no matter the kind of day you've had, the sauna has an amazing ability to put you back into a better state. 

One of the main ways the sauna does this is by increasing the release of endorphin. These natural feel-good chemicals significantly enhance mood and relaxation. The process of relaxing in the heat not only elevates endorphins but also creates an ideal environment for meditation and mental tranquility, effectively reducing stress levels and promoting overall well-being.  Readers maybe interested in reviewing our article about Natural Solutions for Anxiety and Stress Relief.

• Sauna Benefits for Mental Health: This study involving a global survey found that regular sauna users reported much better mental well-being scores, and that it was an excellent natural stress relief solution.

3.  Muscle Relaxation & Pain Relief

Saunas are highly effective for pain management, offering significant benefits for those with chronic conditions. The soothing heat aids in arthritis relief, easing joint discomfort.  Additionally, fibromyalgia sufferers often find relief through regular sauna use, as the warm environment helps in the relaxation of aching muscles. 

By increasing blood flow the sauna is also fantastic for muscle tension relief, saunas not only aid in post-exercise recovery but also offer a therapy for aches by soothing muscles, making them a valuable tool for overall physical wellness.

• This Study found that a single infrared sauna session can enhance recovery of neuromuscular performance and reduce muscle soreness after resistance exercise, without negatively impacting the autonomic nervous system.

4.  Sauna and Detox

Sweating for detoxification is a key benefit of sauna use, as the high heat induces sweating that helps the body eliminate toxins through the skin. While the primary detoxification occurs via the liver and kidneys, the elimination of toxins in the sauna can support this natural cleansing process, enhancing overall health and well-being and making the sauna a valuable tool for detox.

• This Study shows that sweating through sauna use can significantly increase the elimination of toxins and of toxic heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury, compared to levels typically excreted in urine or plasma, suggesting that sauna use may be beneficial for detoxification.

5.  Sauna Benefits for Skin

Sauna sessions are excellent for cleansing skin, as the heat opens pores and induces sweating, effectively flushing out impurities. Regular sauna use not only cleanses the skin but also improves complexion , as the increased circulation brings vital nutrients to the skin's surface, enhancing both its health and appearance

• This Study titled indicates that regular Finnish sauna use can enhance skin hydration, improve the function of the epidermal barrier, and help the skin recover faster from moisture loss and pH changes after sauna sessions, promoting overall skin health.

6.  Sauna -Weight Loss & Metabolism

While saunas shouldn't replace regular exercise, they can increase the heart rate, which may temporarily boost metabolism and help with burning calories in the sauna. However, most water weight loss in the sauna, is due to sweating.

• This Study titled "Sauna-Induced Body Mass Loss in Young Sedentary Women and Men" examines how sauna use contributes to body mass loss through thermal stress, particularly highlighting the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and the weight loss experienced from dry sauna use among adults​.

7.  Hormones

Sauna sessions can help in balancing hormone levels, reducing stress-related hormones like cortisol, and increasing the production of growth hormones that aid in muscle repair and recovery.

• Scientific Study: Sauna causes hormone changes similar to stress responses, but with unique effects like increased growth hormone (HGH) and a hormone that can create feelings of pleasure. Any changes typically return to normal within a few hours after the sauna.

8.  Brain Health

Sauna use can increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports brain health, and may enhance memory and cognitive function by improving focus and reducing the risk of dementia.

• This Study titled "Post-sauna recovery enhances brain neural network relaxation and improves cognitive economy in oddball tasks" found that after Finnish sauna use, individuals exhibited increased relaxation in brain neural networks and more efficient cognitive processing, without any negative effects on overall cognitive performance.

9.  Sauna for Better Sleep

The body's temperature regulation plays a key role in sleep patterns. The cooling down period after leaving a sauna can help signal to the body that it's time for rest, leading to deeper and more restful sleep.

10.  Sauna and Immune Health

Regular sauna use has been observed to increase the production of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in your body's immune response and ability to fight off illness.  It is fantastic at strengthening the immune system

• This Study by Rhonda P. Patrick and Teresa L. Johnson explores the benefits of sauna use in relation to longevity and health. It emphasises how sauna bathing mimics the body's response to exercise, involving cardiovascular and neuroendocrine systems. The review consolidates data showing that regular sauna use may decrease the risk of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, assist in muscle preservation, and improve mental health. These health benefits appear to be dose-dependent, with more frequent use providing greater benefits. 

11.  Social Support

Sauna culture often involves communal experiences, which can offer psychological benefits, enhance mood, and reduce feelings of loneliness by fostering social connections.

12.  Feels Fantastic

Beyond the physiological benefits, the overall experience of a sauna—the warmth, the solitude, or the community—can be deeply satisfying, providing a sense of well-being and contentment.

13.  Sauna and Respiratory Health

Regular sauna use also offers incredible benefits for respiratory health. The warm, humid air of a sauna can help open airways, which may provide relief for people with respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis. The heat can help thin mucus, making it easier to expel, and the steam may reduce the inflammation in the bronchial tubes, easing the discomfort associated with these conditions. 

Regular sauna sessions could potentially improve lung function, though individuals with respiratory issues should consult with a healthcare provider before using a sauna.

Practical Tips for Sauna Use in Your Wellness Routine

• Start Slowly: If you're new to saunas, begin with shorter sessions (about 5-10 minutes) and gradually increase the duration over time.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after your sauna session to replenish fluids lost through sweating.

• Choose the Right Time: Incorporate sauna sessions at a time that suits your daily schedule. Many find it relaxing after a workout or in the evening before bed.

• Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels during the sauna. If you feel dizzy or uncomfortable, it's time to step out.

• Cool Down Gradually: After your session, allow your body to cool down gradually. Avoid jumping into a cold shower immediately; instead, sit or lie down for a few minutes.

• Combine with Other Wellness Practices: Enhance your sauna experience by combining it with other practices like meditation, light stretching, or breathing exercises.

• Regularity is Key: Consistency is important for long-term benefits. Aim for a regular schedule, whether it's daily, several times a week, or weekly.

• Cleanliness: Ensure you shower before and after your sauna session to keep the sauna clean and to remove toxins from your skin.

Potential Drawbacks and Limitations of Sauna and Steam Room Use

While saunas and steam rooms offer numerous health benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone, and certain precautions should be considered:

• Dehydration and Overheating: Prolonged exposure to high heat can lead to dehydration and overheating. It's crucial to stay hydrated and limit sauna sessions to a safe duration.

• Heart Conditions: Individuals with heart conditions or cardiovascular issues should consult a doctor before using saunas or steam rooms. The high heat can strain the cardiovascular system.

• Pregnancy: Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid saunas and steam rooms, as the elevated temperatures can pose risks to the fetus.

• Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Saunas can cause fluctuations in blood pressure. While they may lower blood pressure over time, the immediate effect can be a rise in blood pressure, which might be risky for people with hypertension.

• Children: Saunas and steam rooms may not be safe for young children due to their developing thermoregulatory systems.

• Medication Interactions: Certain medications can affect the body's ability to sweat or respond to heat, increasing the risk of overheating.

• Alcohol and Drug Use: Using a sauna or steam room under the influence of alcohol or certain drugs can increase the risk of dehydration, hypotension, arrhythmia, and even fainting.

• Skin Conditions: Individuals with certain skin conditions may experience exacerbation of symptoms due to the intense heat and sweating.

• Respiratory Issues: While steam rooms can benefit some respiratory conditions, others may worsen in high humidity or heat environments.

It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting sauna or steam room sessions, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or concerns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several health benefits of being in a sauna. The benefits extend across various types, each with its distinctive advantages. Dry saunas are exceptional for inducing deep, detoxifying sweats and reducing stress, while steam saunas offer excellent respiratory relief, clearing airways and benefiting skin health through increased humidity. Infrared saunas delve deeper with radiant heat, promoting pain relief and circulation. 

Regardless of the type of sauna – be it dry, steam, or infrared – the numerous sauna health benefits will most definitely leave you feeling mentally and physically better.