Things are Heating Up

SAUNA BATHING PROMISES RELAXATION WHILE PROMOTING GOOD HEALTH; BUT IT ALSO PRESENTS A NUMBER OF DRAWBACKS. READ MORE TO FIND OUT HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF THIS HOT PASTIME

For many, sauna sessions are an integral part of their wellness routine. After vigorous exercise, spending some time in the sauna can help relax your mind and body. Additionally, the amenity allows for socializing with fellow gym or spa visitors. But did you know that the roots of this practice stretch all the way back to the New Stone Age?

The BBC traces the concept of the sauna back to 10,000 years ago, when the Nordics dug a sauna pit into the ground. However, the modern sauna as we know it today originated specifically in Finland. According to Nordic Sauna Sanctuary, these modern saunas—also known as Finnish saunas—emerged in the 12th century and have since played a pivotal role in Finnish culture.

Sitting in a boiling room might sound like torture, especially if you live in a region with a hot and humid climate; however, sauna bathing has a number of health benefits. Keep in mind, though, that prolonged exposure to high temperatures in an enclosed space can also have its downsides.

GOOD INSIDE, GOOD OUTSIDE

In an article for Men’s Health, trainer AJ Mason recommends post-workout sauna bathing for quicker muscle recovery. The heat can help your body bring oxygen and nutrients back to your muscles, resulting in faster recovery and a feeling of refreshment. In addition, ScienceDirect highlights a study conducted by Rhonda P. Patrick and Teresa L. Johnson in 2021 who found that sauna time helps preserve muscle mass and prevent age-related skeletal muscle loss. This way, you don’t lose all that you gained in your training sessions.

Sauna bathing also promotes cardiovascular health while reducing the risk of heart disease. In a study published in the 2018 Mayo Clinic Proceedings, Jari A. Laukkanen et al. found that regular sauna use can lower blood pressure and reduce arterial stiffness, which, in turn, improves heart function. Further research found a link between sauna bathing and a reduced risk of fatal heart issues.

Those with respiratory issues can also benefit from this activity. Studies have found that bathing in a sauna helps ease asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. In addition, the heat can loosen phlegm and open obstructed airways. Relaxing inside the sauna can help alleviate the symptoms of a cold.

If these benefits aren’t convincing enough, saunas can actually help you feel happier. Researchers from the University of Leichester found that sauna bathing can lower stress levels. We all deserve an opportunity to sit in a calm environment, allowing us to enjoy a wholesome pause after a long day.

SOME NOT-SO-GOOD THINGS

Sadly, sauna bathing also has some drawbacks. For one, heat exposure leads to heavy sweating, causing fluid loss and symptoms like dizziness and muscle cramps, as noted by Physical Therapy Central. And of course, the last thing you want is to pass out inside the sauna due to dehydration.

In addition, the activity might not be suitable for people with certain skin problems. Dermatologist Dr. Erin Gilbert, MD, PhD points out that saunas can trigger skin irritation, especially on sensitive skin. Conditions such as psoriasis and eczema may also worsen with sauna bathing.

While saunas overall are good for your heart, they can be dangerous if you already have a specific cardiovascular condition. According to WebMD, sauna bathing can overexert your heart with the heat placing the body under stress, and if you have recently had a stroke or heart attack, this activity can instead become a recipe for disaster.

ENJOYING THE HEAT SAFELY

Sauna bathing has pros and cons, but that doesn’t mean that it’s a risky endeavor in general. There are ways to maximize the benefits and minimize the drawbacks. Experts recommend limiting the bathing time between five to ten minutes for beginners and gradually increasing it to 20 minutes. It’s also crucial to drink two to four glasses of water afterward.

If you think about enjoying a stiff drink or two during a sauna session, you may want to avoid this and switch to non-alcoholic refreshers. Researchers in Finland found that around 20 to 25 sauna-related deaths per year were due to alcohol consumption that led to dehydration. In addition, Healthline mentions that people with diabetes, high blood pressure or chest pain should consult with their doctor first before trying sauna bathing.

All in all, sauna bathing has various health benefits and provides a great way to relax after a long day. For a safe and enjoyable experience, be aware of any risk factors that you might have and be sure to stay hydrated. Happy sweating!