A sauna is a type of heated room that is used to raise body temperature. Saunas are generally classified into two main categories---wet and dry. A wet sauna produces steam that increases the temperature and provides a humid atmosphere. Dry saunas are generally heated with infrared lamps that slowly raise interior temperatures in upward of 125 degrees F. According to the Creighton University Medical Center School of Medicine, saunas originated between the 5th and 8th century and have become popularized by the Finns. Today, they are sought after worldwide for their many health benefits.
Skin Cleansing
Spending up to 15 minutes in a sauna can actually help improve your skin. As your body temperature begins to rise, sweat begins to flow out through your pores. This cleans the pores from the inside out, naturally, without creams and chemicals. Sauna Fin also states that when you enter a sauna session, you experience intense and profuse perspiration; this promotes a healthy skin complexion because the skin is eliminating dirt buildup and impurities.
Muskoskeletal
The muskoskeletal system consists of our body's muscles and joints. According to the North American Sauna Society, if you suffer from muscle tension, pain, post exercise muscles spasms and pain, sprains and bursitis, short 15 minute daily visits to the sauna may help reduce pain and inflammation. For fibromyalgia or arthritis problems in your legs, arms or joints, the heat from the sauna penetrates the muscle layers and helps relax stiff muscles and joints.
Detoxification
Many sauna users seek out a visit in the sauna to detoxify their body from harmful toxins and chemicals that may have built up over the years. Fat soluble toxins and heavy metals can accumulate in our bloodstream over time through ingestion and inhaling. If these toxins cannot be properly expelled through sweat and urine, they build up and can eventually try to pass through the liver, kidneys and other vital organs. Sweating inside a sauna can remove nickel, nicotine, benzenes, chloride, sodium, copper, mercury, lead, anesthetics and drugs.
Immune System
Having frequent short sauna sessions may also help boost your immune system. Creighton University Medical Center School of Medicine states that fever is the body's natural defense mechanism against bacteria and infection. As the body temperature rises in the sauna, white blood cells are produced through bone marrow and T cells are created by the thymus. Both of these stimulate the immune system and help the body better fight off immune disorders and certain types of cancers.
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