Saunas provide an environment where you can go to increase your body’s temperature, relax and possibly improve your health. Health clubs, spas and resorts often include a sauna on their list of amenities. In addition, the popularity of home saunas has increased in recent years. Due to the intensity of the experience, certain individuals should not use a sauna while those who can will want to abide by specific safety guidelines.
Benefits
Saunas have been used for many centuries by individuals wanting to cleanse their bodies and improve overall health. The intense heat of a sauna can increase circulation, which in turn improves the body’s oxygenation. According to the Vizyon Sauna website, saunas have been thought to assist in the weight loss process as well as believed to promote detoxification of harmful chemicals, bacteria and other substances that infiltrate your body on a regular basis.
Warning
If you are an elderly individual, pregnant woman, taking medications, have a heart condition or high blood pressure, you should not endure the excessive heat associated with a sauna. If you are a diabetic, possess circulatory problems, or have a skin affliction or infection the excessive heat can exacerbate your existing condition. Do not allow children under the age of 18 in a sauna.
Practices
A full stomach coupled with intense heat can dramatically lower your blood pressure. Therefore, you should avoid the sauna for at least four hours after eating a heavy meal as it can increase your likelihood of nausea, dizziness or fainting. You should never drink alcoholic beverages or use drugs before entering the sauna. Remove all jewelry, electronic devices such as cell phones and portable music players, before entering the sauna. Such items can become hot and cause burns or break due to the heat and humidity.
Rehydrate
The Sauna Talk website recommends that you immediately rehydrate and cool down after sauna use. Immerse yourself in a cool water source, such as a pool or shower and drink two to four glasses of cold water. In addition, you will want to protect your skin and hair from heat damage. A towel wrapped about your head while in the sauna can prevent your hair from becoming dry and brittle. Moisturize your skin with lotion soon after entering the cooler air to prevent chapped skin.
Considerations
Use your sauna time to relax. Do not attempt to read a magazine or newspaper as it will most likely wilt in the humidity. Be sure that any clothing or towels that you bring into the sauna are also taken back out. Do not place such items near the heat source of the sauna. You should never stay in longer than 20 minutes. It is recommended that you leave after 10 minutes to take a five minute rest and then return for one more 10-minute session.
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