The ambient heat and steam produced within a sauna have many applications. Sauna occupants enjoy a cleansing, renewing effect due in part to sweating and exposure to soothing heat, and saunas can also be used to alleviate certain chronic pain and symptoms of other chronic conditions.
Weight Loss
Heat boosts the body's metabolism, increasing the speed with which calories and nutrients are processed. Time spent in the sauna exposes the body to sufficient heat to trigger this effect, and weight loss can result over time. Time in a sauna boosts the metabolism in a similar way as does exercise, resulting in weight loss and toxin purging as one might experience during a brisk walk or other moderate physical activity.
Relaxation, Immunity and Reduction of Stress
Occupants may find the heat from a sauna relaxing, finding that stress levels and tensions are eased after time spent in the sauna. This relaxation also results in lower blood pressure and can reduce the symptoms of certain chronic conditions associated with anxiety and stress. The relaxed physical state induced by a sauna encourages rest and may be useful in alleviating the sleeplessness associated with insomnia. Heat within a sauna also simulates a fever condition, prompting more regular function of the immune system and increasing the body's resistance to disease. Steam can alleviate the symptoms of certain respiratory problems such as laryngitis, sinusitis and bronchitis. Germs that would otherwise tax the immune system are purged during the profuse sweating that takes place during a sauna bath.
Skin Health
The skin is cleansed during a sauna bath, as dead skin cells and other surface contaminants are washed away. Production of new skin cells is encouraged by this process, and the skin is renewed. Capillary circulation is improved as well and bacteria is washed from the epidermal layer, where it might clog pores and cause blotches or blemishes.
Social Uses
The social applications of a sauna include use as a private gathering place where people can utilize the quiet and intimate setting to strengthen social bonds, relax and be open with each other.
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