A sauna is a small treatment room filled with dry heat where the temperature can reach up to 185 degrees, according to Harvard Health Publications. When in a sauna, the heat causes your body to produce sweat and increase circulation. Dr. Harvey Simon, editor of “Harvard Men's Health Watch,” states that if you suffer from high blood pressure or other heart problems, you should check with your doctor before spending time in a sauna.
Relaxation
Sitting in the peaceful environment of a sauna offers a prime opportunity for deep relaxation, according to the Infrared Sauna Effect website. The sauna's heat releases tension in your muscles, helping your body feel at ease. Spending time in a sauna increases circulation and brings oxygen to parts of your body that may not receive as much oxygen normally. The relaxing heat in a sauna increases your endorphins, encouraging an overall good feeling mentally and physically.
Detoxification
In his book, “Sauna Therapy,” Dr. Lawrence Wilson states that saunas can remove harmful toxins from your body. By sitting in a sauna and allowing your skin to sweat for a period of time, you eliminate toxins such as household chemicals and heavy metals from your system. Heating your body in a sauna increases your blood flow, which helps your body fight off infections.
Skin Cleansing
According to the Steam and Sauna Bathing Explained website, spending time in a sauna can improve the cleanliness and healthiness of your skin. Sweating while in a sauna removes dirt and toxins from deep within your pores, leading to cleaner skin than you can achieve through washing alone. The Infrared Sauna Effect site claims that saunas can relieve the symptoms of chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
Increased Metabolism
Wilson claims in “Sauna Therapy” that spending time in a sauna can increase your metabolism. By increasing your metabolism, you suffer less from fatigue, allergies, obesity, high cholesterol, reoccurring infections and food cravings. Having a faster metabolism can slow the effects of aging by supporting overall health.
Athletic Benefits
The Infrared Sauna Effect website claims that saunas increase circulation and promote sweating as much as walking at a moderate pace. Enjoying a sauna before a workout prepares your body for exercise by warming up your muscles and getting your blood pumping. If you spend time in a sauna before exercising, you will recover from your workout quickly and experience fast relief from any post-workout soreness.
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