If you have ever used a steam room, or a sauna that uses steam, then you know firsthand how relaxing the experience can be. Many steam rooms combine the benefits of a sauna with aromatherapy by placing a strong scent in the water, such as eucalyptus. Steam rooms only need to be kept at about 106 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to dry saunas, which are normally kept around 180 degrees. This is because steam rooms have humidity of 100 percent, and the moist air raises your body temperature faster. The humid, warm environment provided by a steam room delivers several excellent health benefits. Consult your doctor before using a steam room to self-treat any condition.
Cleansing
When you sweat, the fluid pours out through your pores; this process helps to remove foreign matter or chemicals that may be contained in your skin. A diet filled with excess animal-protein fats, caffeine, alcohol and chemicals hinders the proper functioning of your cells and tissues, so the cleansing of toxins and waste products provided by steam rooms will help to revitalize and restore optimum functioning in your body. A steam room is more efficient at cleansing than a dry sauna. The Steam & Sauna Connection website states that the powerful cleansing and healing process of hyperthermia does not take place until the body reaches 101 to 103 degrees F. When your body gets hot, it sweats, and the cooling effects of sweat are more effective in a dry environment. When your skin is already wet, it does not cool as effectively, and this is why a steam room will raise your internal temperature faster than a dry sauna.
Respiratory
Inhaling steam can help treat respiratory conditions including the common cold, sinusitis, bronchitis, allergies, and exercise-induced asthma. Further, Steam & Sauna Connection reports, steam inhalation relieves the inflammation and congestion of upper respiratory mucous membranes, alleviates throat irritation by moistening the air, stimulates discharge of mucous from throat and lungs, and keeps mucous membranes from excessive drying. Adding eucalyptus or menthol to the water often helps open the nasal passages when you are clogged up, reducing cold symptoms.
Stress Reduction
Signs of stress include muscle aches, fatigue, insomnia and headaches. Steam rooms are an excellent choice for unwinding and relaxing your body. The heat provided in steam rooms dilates your arteries and veins, lowering blood pressure. This dilation can result in fewer headaches and an increase in blood flow to the aching muscles in your body. The warm heat is soothing, and can also be calming to your body. Try sitting in the steam room after your workouts at night and you might find that your sleep improves.
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