Wet Sauna Benefits

Wet Sauna Benefits
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Wet saunas are also known as steam saunas. In dry saunas, heat is generated by heated rocks or an infrared heater. Wet saunas use heated rocks as well, but water is poured over the rocks to produce steam. According to the experts at Go Ask Alice! from Columbia University, saunas are not for everybody. People with heart problems, the elderly and those taking certain medications should not use a sauna, or use it with caution.

Lower Stress

While all types of sauna are relaxing, wet saunas allows you to introduce aromatherapy. According to the Health and Sauna website, adding a few drops of essential oil to water and then using the mix to throw on the rocks will cause the fragrance to be diffused throughout the room. You can choose invigorating or relaxing scents, depending on what you're trying to achieve. Because wet saunas also help your muscles to relax, it can be a good choice after an intense workout or if you have achy joints or suffer from arthritis.

Improved Circulation

According to the American Sauna Society, a sauna session can help to dilate blood vessels, which in turn increases blood flow and improves circulation, especially to the extremities. This gives your heart a workout, raises your heartbeat to numbers as high as 120 beats per minute and burns calories. In fact, U.S. Army research shows that a single sauna session can burn as much as 300 calories. Although any weight lost is likely to be just water due to the intense sweating, the use of a sauna can be a good addition to a weight loss program.

Release of Toxins

Probably the most talked-about benefit of a sauna is the release of toxins. Wet saunas cause you to sweat profusely. As you sweat, toxins come out. This can not only improve your overall health and immune system, but it can also improve the look and feel of your skin. According to Almost Heaven Saunas, saunas can clear your complexion and restore a moist, youthful appearance. Wet saunas are also beneficial to help you deal with the toxins associated with respiratory problems, decreasing the occurrence or severity of chest congestion, colds and plugged sinuses.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Apr 26, 2011

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