Saunas more than just relaxing, studies find

Finns are known for their ancient sauna habit. Nowadays their tradition is to toast themselves in a tent, often followed by a jump in a frigid lake. Apparently, they’re on to something: New research indicates that regular saunas could be as healthful as regular exercise. Bonus: You don’t really have to do that frosty dip.

The Mayo Clinic Proceedings recently published a paper titled Cardiovascular and Other Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing: A Review of the Evidence. The researchers conclude that “sauna bathing may be linked to several health benefits, which include reduction in the risk of vascular diseases such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and neurocognitive diseases; nonvascular conditions such as pulmonary diseases; mortality; and amelioration of conditions such as arthritis, headache and flu.”

A team of researchers from Finland reviewed all existing studies on sauna bathing. The studies typically included subjects who spent five to 20 minutes in a sauna that’s heated between 80 C to 100 C, followed by a swim, shower or return to room temperature. Sauna exposure raised subjects’ heart rates to 120 beats to 150 beats per minute and increased blood flow to the skin, much as moderate exercise does.

Several studies have determined that the practice is linked to lower blood pressure and decreased artery stiffness. In addition, subjects who visit a sauna four to seven times a week have 60 per cent lower rates of heart disease and stroke than those who visit just once a week.

“Sauna may be a new way to reduce cardiovascular risk,” says lead researcher Jari Laukkanen, a cardiologist and professor at the University of Eastern Finland.

Be aware of the risks. Saunas are heated, and you don’t want to brush up against whatever device is providing the heat. Drinking water is fine but not alcohol. Lastly, while there’s little evidence associating a chilly plunge with heart attack or arrhythmia, experts generally advise against a cold shock.

As with any exercise routine, start slow, with maybe just a few minutes of heat exposure for your first sauna. Increase sauna time gradually. In Finland, there are roughly as many saunas as there are homes. In North America, saunas are far less common, but many gyms and YMCAS have them.