Originating from the enchanting land of Finland, the age-old tradition of taking a sauna has become an inseparable part of Finnish culture.
Sauna bathing has been extensively studied, and these investigations have provided compelling evidence of its numerous wellness-boosting benefits. One of the key factors behind these health promoting properties is called hormesis. Furthermore, sauna use activates a protein called Nrf2, which acts as a switch triggering our body's antioxidant response.
Sweating profusely in the sauna can aid in the detoxification of the system by eliminating toxic agents that tend to accumulate over time. A study published in the Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology found that certain heavy metals, including aluminum, cadmium, cobalt, and lead, were detected at higher levels in sweat compared to urine.
Sauna bathing increases the heart rate, leading to vasodilation and improved blood vessel function, similar to the effects of moderate exercise. This helps maintain a healthy heart and efficient blood circulation. This has been particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic musculoskeletal diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. A study examining the effects of infrared sauna treatments found that participants experienced reduced pain, stiffness, and fatigue after undergoing eight sessions over a four-week period.
Recent studies have revealed some exciting findings published in the prestigious Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport. One such study demonstrated that post-exercise sauna sessions resulted in a 7.1% increase in plasma volumes and a 3.5% rise in red-cell volumes among participants. These physiological changes have the potential to significantly improve endurance performance.
If you are interested in trying a sauna, start slowly and gradually increase the duration of your sessions as your body becomes accustomed to the heat. It's also important to stay hydrated, so don't forget to drink sufficient water before and after your sauna visit to prevent dehydration. Always listen to your body's signals and enjoy the sauna experience in a safe and comfortable manner.
