Sweat it out. The benefits of Saunas.
Scandinavian countries are well acquainted with the many health benefits of regular sauna use. It’s part of their culture, and usage starts in early childhood.
Keep in mind that the research on the benefits of sauna use needs to be more extensive. The advantages that I’m listing below are anecdotal or have been provided by sources that I trust.
Sweating is necessary and good for your health, and not easy to do this time of year. A regular sweat session from a workout, being in a hot room, or time in a sauna will ensure you detoxify. Think about sweating out the toxins that accumulate in our bodies from exposure to pollution, pesticides and unhealthy eating.
Some other benefits:
relieve minor pain and muscle aches
relax and sleep better
improve blood circulation
decrease the likelihood of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease Source
Most gyms and spas have saunas, and if you have access, attend at least three times a week to reap the benefits.
These days, there are numerous types of saunas:
Saunas vs. Steam rooms
They both promote sweating. The heat from a stove's hot rocks elevates the room’s temperature to 195°F (90.5°C) with very low humidity. Steam rooms involve moist heat and operate at lower temperatures, usually around 110 to 120°F (43 to 49°C) and 100 percent relative humidity.
1. Electric Sauna
The most common type of sauna is the electric sauna, which typically uses an electric sauna stove to heat stones or rocks that can retain heat.
Burning wood is not required, and an electric sauna is activated by simply pressing a button.
In most electric saunas, it is not advised to splash water on the rocks. Many gyms have this type of sauna, and it’s pretty easy to control the temperature inside the sauna.
2. Wood Burning Sauna
A wood-burning sauna, or wood stove sauna, works similarly to an electric sauna but has a more traditional setup.
A metal stove, or kiuas in the Finnish language, burns the wood, and sauna stones are placed on top of the stove that heat up and disperse heat. Water can then be used to splash onto the rocks to create a steam effect occasionally, also referred to as löyly in Finnish.
4. Infrared Sauna
This is a newer type of sauna which uses infrared waves to heat the body.
These waves emit infrared energy on a similar wavelength to the energy the human body naturally emits, approximately 7 to 14 microns. Infrared targets the body rather than warming up an entire room. As a result, the average temperature in an infrared sauna is typically much lower than in a traditional sauna with a stove.
5. Steam Sauna
A steam sauna, also called a steam room, is a type of sauna that heats up by creating steam that is emitted into the room at regular intervals. They are popular in gyms but are also used in Turkish hammams. Steam rooms are typically heated by a steam generator that boils water, turning it into steam and releasing it into the room. This creates a humidity level in the room that is much higher (up to 100%) than in a traditional sauna.
6. Steam Shower Sauna
This is essentially a steam sauna added to a shower area, suitable for those who don’t want or need a bulky electric sauna in their house.
7. Portable Home Sauna
This sauna is cheaper than the above steam shower sauna and is easy to set up. All you need to do is place yourself inside the unit, turn on the steamer, and start your session. A chair is often included for extra comfort. Note that they also come in an infrared version if that’s what you prefer.
When to avoid saunas
Certain health conditions are not compatible with saunas or steam rooms. Be sure to check with a health professional before using a sauna if you have any of the following conditions:
asthma or other breathing conditions
heart disease
pregnancy
epilepsy
very high or very low blood pressure
Avoid the sauna if you are under the influence of alcohol, are taking stimulants, tranquillizers, or other mind-altering drugs
I use the electric sauna at my gym three times per week. This is easy in the winter and way more challenging in the hot summer, but I still do it. Spending time in the sauna after a workout alleviates my joint pain. If I’m experiencing anxiety, this decreases substantially after my time in the sauna. I also feel more relaxed, sleep better, and my skin looks healthy with regular sauna use. I do not stay in the sauna longer than 15 minutes as I’ll feel tired for the rest of the day. I drink plenty of water before, after and during my time in the sauna, and I end my after-sauna shower with the coldest water I can stand for a minute.
I also love attending spas that have therapeutic waters; Body Blitz in Toronto, Scandinave in Blue Mountain and Nordik in Chelsea, Quebec (not far from Ottawa).
The sauna is another tool in my self-care tool kit and one that you should consider adding.
Be well. Get hot & sweaty.
Anita
DISCLAIMER; The information provided on County Yoga Loft’s website blog is for general health care informational purposes only. All information on the site is provided in good faith. However, it should not replace consultation or advice from a physician and/or other healthcare practitioners. The use or reliance of any information contained on this site is solely at your own risk.