Why Sauna? Benefits of hot/cold therapy

“A day in the sauna is a day you do not age.” – Old Eastern European adage

Sauna and heat-bathing is one of the fastest growing health trends – and for good reason. Public sauna-ing is one of the most holistic well-being practices because:
… of its great physiological health benefits
… it is a collective, social experience
… of its ability to relieve stress
… it just feels great!

Physiological Health Benefits: The more you do it, the more benefits you reap!

pain relief
increased blood circulation
heart health
headache and migraine relief
skin health
immune system boosting
chronic pain reduction
helps with respiratory diseases and reduces symptoms of asthma
helps sore muscles after workout and speeds post-work out recovery
may help you look younger and make your hair shine 🙂
lowers blood pressure
helps flush body of excess sodium, lactic acid, and uric acid
clears congestion
blood sugar level reduction
heavy metal detoxification – lead, mercury, arsenic are better excreted through the skin than in urine or blood
may aid in weight loss
lowers cholesterol
incorporates cold water therapy thereby activating the body’s natural healing process

Learn More:

Saunas Are A Hot Trend, And They Might Even Help Your Health – NPR

Cardiovascular and Other Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing: A Review of the Evidence – Mayo Clinic

Benefits of Sauna: 8 Ways It Makes You Healthier and Happier – Lifehack

Health Benefits of Using a Sauna – Health Status

Saunas Might Actually Be Really Good For You – Here’s Why – Women’s Health Magazine

Why Saunas Are Ridiculously Good for You – Time

Are Saunas and Steam Rooms Good for Your Health? – Very Well Health

 

Sociality:

– Heat-seekers have no demographic –

re-enforces connections with family and friends (and new friends)
encourages casual conversation
forces digital detox
facilitates inter-generational connection
enhances memory and may lower risk of dementia
mitigates winter depression

Learn more:

I highly recommend the documentary “Steam of Life”: Trailer Link

After thousands of years the sauna is still the best social network – Medium

Relieves stress:

with extended and frequent use, sauna may reduce cortisol levels
energizing and rejuvenating
provides space for a personal retreat
mind relaxation and meditation
helps promote a good night’s sleep

Learn more:

13 Proven Ways Sauna Can Improve Your Mental Health – Optimal Living Dynamics

It just feels great:

the after sauna glow
releases endorphins
reduces risk of depression
the feeling of heating up then cooling in a cold shower is incomparable!!!

Learn more:

The Way of the Wolf: Saunas, coffee and canoeing in Finland – Explore Magazine

Our Sauna Story – Saunatimes

Saunatimes Podcast

Testimonials of people who sweat at The Lost Faucet