Benefits of SAUNA THERAPY: 5 Tips to Maximize Benefits
WHAT IS A SAUNA?
Saunas are buildings or rooms designed to increase your body temperature as a way to achieve many health benefits.
Traditional saunas have high heat and low humidity, which promotes sweating. Most saunas range from 150-195°F.
Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body more directly, which means the surrounding air is cooler but the physical effects are more intense.
BENEFITS OF SAUNA THERAPY
promote relaxation
improve mood
support detoxification
manage inflammation & pain
relieve muscle soreness
reduce joint stiffness
support healthy circulation
promote lymph flow
improve sleep
support healthy skin
recalibrate temperature regulation
HOW TO USE A SAUNA
Drink lots of water before, during, and after your session to prevent dehydration.
Start at a lower temperature and increase each session as your body can tolerate.
Enter with light clothing, a swimsuit, or naked.
Read, talk, meditate, stretch, or rest during your session, but do not sleep.
Keep your session between 15-30 minutes for optimal benefits and safety.
Avoid sauna therapy or consult your health care provider if you are pregnant, elderly, sensitive to heat, take medications that impact fluid balance/histamine, or have hyper/hypotension or cardiovascular issues.
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References
Jones, D. S., Bland, J. S., & Quinn, S. (2010). Textbook of Functional Medicine. Institute for Functional Medicine.
Hussain, J., & Cohen, M. (2018). Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2018, 1857413. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/1857413