How does a sauna work?
First of all, there are different types of saunas and each sauna has its own mechanism to produce heat.
For example, an infrared sauna uses infrared light to create heat. Infrared saunas use electricity for power and they don’t require as much time to heat up as a traditional sauna.
A traditional sauna, on the other hand, relies on a wood-burning stove or an electric heater to produce heat. The heat produced by these stoves or heaters warms up the rocks placed inside the sauna. And when you pour water over the rocks, it creates steam.
The basic function of a sauna is to create heat, which makes our core body temperature rise. When we are in a sauna, our blood vessels dilate and our heart rate increases as our body try to cool itself down.
This increase in heart rate is similar to what happens when we exercise. So, in a way, sauna bathing can be considered a form of light exercise.
The heat produced by a sauna can also help to loosen the muscles and relieve pain. This is because the heat increases the blood flow to the muscles and helps to reduce inflammation.
What are the health benefits of saunas?
So this is what we all have been waiting for, the health benefits of saunas. Let’s find out how a sauna can help you Think-longer, faster, stronger!
1. Improves blood pressure
The reason behind high blood pressure is that the vessels that carry blood constrict. When you expose your body to the high heat of a sauna, the vessels dilate and as a result, blood flows more easily. This can help lower your blood pressure.
2. Improves cardiovascular health
When you spend time in a sauna, your heart rate increases and this gives your cardiovascular system a workout. This can help improve your overall cardiovascular health. Spending 30-40 minutes in a sauna three to four times a week can help improve your cardiovascular health.
3. It’s good for your skin
Dry sauna sessions help flush out toxins from your skin. The high heat also improves blood circulation to the skin, which can give you a healthy glow. Also, when we sweat, our pores open up and this can help deep cleanse the skin.
4. Help you relax
Steam rooms are hugely popular for their ability to help us relax. The moist heat helps loosen our muscles and the steam can help clear our sinuses. This can lead to a deep feeling of relaxation. Regular sauna usage can also help reduce stress levels by up to 60%.
5. It can help you lose weight
Regular dry sauna bathing can help you lose weight by burning calories. Because as we sweat in a sauna, we are actually burning calories. This is similar to exercising, but without having to put in the hard work!
What are the downsides of saunas?
Everything good comes with a price and so do saunas. Let’s take a look at the potential downside of saunas
1. Dehydration
One of the most common dangers of saunas is dehydration. When we sweat, we lose fluids and if these fluids are not replaced, it can lead to dehydration. It is important to drink plenty of water before and after a sauna session to avoid dehydration.
2. Sauna burns
Another potential danger of saunas is getting burned. The high heat of a sauna can cause burns if you are not careful. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and not to stay in the sauna for too long.
3. It’s not for everyone
Saunas are not suitable for everyone, especially traditional saunas. If you have a heart condition, high blood pressure, or are pregnant, you should not use a sauna. It is also not recommended for people who have had recent surgery or who are taking certain medications.
4. Can be addictive
Saunas can be addictive and this can lead to health problems. If you find that you are using the sauna more than you should, it is important to seek help.
5. Might need to ask your doctor
If you have health conditions like heart disease or high blood pressure, you should check with your doctor before using a sauna. This is because the high heat can be dangerous for some people.
Conclusion
So there you have it! These are the benefits and dangers of saunas. If you are thinking of using a sauna, it is important to be aware of the potential risks. However, if used in moderation, saunas can offer many health benefits. Thanks for reading!