Health Benefits of Sauna: Benefits and Risks to Body and Mind
- Erika
- Mar 16, 2023
- 4 min read
Sauna is one of the oldest health practices used around the world for relaxation, detoxification, alleviating fatigue and stress, and maintaining physical health. These days, many people are embracing saunas and seeking their health benefits. However, saunas also present some risks, and care must be taken to ensure their safe use. This article discusses the health benefits, types, risks, and safe use of saunas.
What is a sauna?
A sauna is a small, enclosed room or building designed to promote relaxation and sweating through the use of heat. The traditional sauna is typically made of wood and has a stove or heater that heats rocks or coals, which in turn heat the air inside the sauna. The heat in the sauna can be regulated by pouring water over the heated rocks or coals to create steam, which can increase the humidity inside the sauna.
Saunas are typically used for therapeutic and relaxation purposes and are popular in many cultures around the world. They are often used for socializing or as a part of a cleansing or detoxification ritual. Some saunas also incorporate other therapies, such as aromatherapy or chromotherapy (color therapy).
There are also several types of saunas, including traditional Finnish saunas, infrared saunas, and steam saunas. Infrared saunas use infrared radiation to heat the body directly, while steam saunas use steam to heat the air and increase humidity. The benefits and risks of using different types of saunas can vary, so it is important to understand the differences and consult with a healthcare provider before using a sauna.
The benefits of saunas
Saunas offer several potential benefits for physical and mental health. Some of the benefits of saunas include:
Relaxation
Saunas are known to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The heat from the sauna can help relax muscles and release tension, which can lead to a feeling of relaxation and well-being.
Improved cardiovascular health
Regular use of saunas has been linked to improvements in cardiovascular health. The heat from the sauna can increase heart rate and improve blood flow, which can help lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular function.
Detoxifications
Saunas can help the body eliminate toxins through sweating. Sweating can also help remove impurities from the skin, promoting a healthy complexion.
Improved immune function
Regular use of saunas has been linked to improved immune function. The heat from the sauna can help stimulate the production of white blood cells, which can help the body fight off infections and illnesses.
Pain relief
Saunas have been used to help alleviate pain from conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. The heat can help relax muscles and reduce inflammation, leading to a reduction in pain.
Improved athletic performance
Saunas have been shown to improve athletic performance by increasing blood flow and reducing muscle fatigue.
Improved mental health
Saunas can have a positive impact on mental health by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. They have also been used to help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Overall, saunas offer several potential benefits for physical and mental health. However, it is important to use saunas safely and consult a healthcare provider before starting a sauna regimen, particularly if you have any medical conditions.
Risks of using saunas
While saunas offer many benefits, there are also some risks associated with their use. Some of the potential risks of using saunas include:
Dehydration
The heat in a sauna can cause excessive sweating, which can lead to dehydration if the user does not drink enough fluids before and after the sauna session.
Heat exhaustion or heat stroke
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke, particularly in individuals who are sensitive to heat or have underlying medical conditions.
Low blood pressure
The heat in a sauna can cause blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. Individuals with low blood pressure or those taking medications that lower blood pressure should use saunas with caution.
Burns
Direct contact with hot surfaces in the sauna, such as the stove or rocks, can cause burns.
Sauna Store in Vancouver
JJ Family Spa in Coquitlam, a short distance from Vancouver You can enjoy sauna, jacuzzi, steam sauna, salt sauna, ocher sauna, charcoal sauna, and more. The admission fee includes a sauna costume, two hand towels, and a locker key, so you can go in empty-handed.
Free Wifi is also provided so you can relax and unwind!
It takes an hour each way from downtown Vancouver, but it is highly recommended and highly rated by Google!
・Business hours
9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily
(Some holidays such as Christmas are available)
・Location
3000 Christmas Way, Coquitlam, BC V3C 2M2, Canada
・Fees
3 hours: $25 ($23.81 + 5% GST)
＊Advance reservation is required
Apply hehe "APPOINTMENT - JJ Family SPA"
Hastings Reflexology & Sauna is a well-established sauna that has been in business since 1926! We have steam saunas (140℉ to 170℉), high heat saunas (160℉ to 195℉), private saunas, and foot massages by appointment.
Bring your own swimsuit; towels and facecloths are available at the facility.
On weekdays from 11 am to 2:30 pm, you can enjoy the sauna at a discount with the morning discount. ‼️
・Business hours
Wednesday to Monday: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Closed on Tuesdays
・Location
766 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1R5
・Fees
After 2:30 p.m.: $31.43
From 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.: $26.67
＊Advance reservations are required.
Art of Sauna and Spa is a stylish sauna popular among women in Burnaby.
For $50 admission, you can enjoy 8 saunas and steam rooms, including a Turkish hammam and a Finnish sauna, for 2 hours.
You must bring your own swimsuit, sandals and towel ‼️
・Business hours
9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Closed on Tuesdays
・Location
7818 6th St, Burnaby, BC V3N 4N8
・Fee
2 hours $50
The Bottom Line
Sauna has been a favourite and healthful activity throughout the world from ancient times to the present day. Sauna has many benefits such as relaxation, detoxification, stress relief, and maintaining physical health, but at the same time, there are risks. When using the sauna, it is important to take your health and usage into full consideration and to use the sauna safely. Overall, proper use of saunas can help promote physical and mental health. However, it is important to understand the risks and be very careful when using them. Before using a sauna, be sure to familiarize yourself with the health conditions and risks involved and choose the use that is right for you.
Comments