Why the Benefits of Sauna Are Totally Worth the Sweat

Michelle Kirel Aug 25, 2024
41 People Read
Sweating in an infrared sauna, absorbing all the benefits of sauna.

If you've ever used a sauna, you know things get sweaty real quick. Your heart starts pumping, your skin gets sticky and you feel yourself heating up. Just like when you work out, right? And like exercise, there's a lot of research suggesting long-lasting benefits of sauna. From better heart and mental health to better sleep, the sauna can help upgrade your health.

Saunas have been a traditional part of many cultures for centuries. Think about Turkish baths, Russian banyas and Native American sweat lodges. The list goes on. In all of these cultures, the health benefits of sauna have been recognized since very early on.

So let's get into the benefits of sauna, the science behind it and how often you should sauna. And if you don't have access to a sauna, keep reading because I have a solution for you, too! (Hint: sauna blanket)

What are the proven benefits of sauna?

A traditional sauna works by heating up the air around you to provide you with the benefits of sauna, a relaxing experience.

A sauna session is more than just a relaxing experience. It can help make your mind and body more resilient in the following ways:

Better Heart Health

In the sauna, your heart rate goes up and your blood flow increases. Just like with moderate exercise. Better circulation can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart problems. Since the sauna affects cells, arteries and the nervous system, it makes sense that our heart reaps many benefits of sauna bathing.

Better Blood Pressure

Saunas can help reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension. Even though a sauna session will temporarily increase heart rate and blood pressure (again, like a moderate work out would), research shows a long-term benefit for blood pressure.

Faster Muscle Recovery

The increased blood flow helps reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery. It's so good after a tough workout or a long day.

Less Stress

Sauna triggers the release of endorphins, or natural mood boosters. Endorphins help us feel happy and less stressed. The sauna can be a powerful tool for mental health.

Less Body Toxins

Saunas sessions are a great way to detox things that live in your fat, like heavy metals. Many chemicals from medications and drugs are stored in body fat. A sauna session can help get rid of these chemicals and other toxins by sweating it out.

Better Sleep

Ever notice how you sleep like a baby after a sauna session? The drop in body temperature post-sauna can help signal your body that it's time to sleep, leading to deeper, more restorative rest.

More Longevity

Regular sauna use has been linked to increased lifespan. This is due to the positive effects on heart health, stress management and resilience to physical stressors.

The Science Behind Sauna Benefits

So, what's really happening inside your body when you step into a sauna? It turns out that heat exposure triggers a series of biological responses that are so good for you. Here's a sneak peak into the science - let's get nerdy for a sec:

  • Heat Shock Proteins: When your body is exposed to heat, it produces something called heat shock proteins (HSPs). These proteins play a crucial role in protecting your cells from stress, repairing damaged proteins, and improving cellular function. In other words, they help your body cope better with physical and mental stress.

  • Hormesis: This is a fancy term for the body's adaptive response to stress. When you expose your body to controlled stress, like heat from the sauna, it becomes stronger and more resilient. This process can lead to better immunity and cognitive function as well as a longer lifespan.

Traditional vs. Infrared Sauna? Sauna Blanket, maybe?

A sauna blanket gives you all the benefits of sauna without needing a sauna room.

The biggest difference between a traditional vs. infrared sauna is the source of heat.

  • Traditional Saunas use rocks and a heater to reach 180-195°F . This makes you sweat profusely, which is great for detoxification and cardiovascular conditioning.

  • Infrared Saunas generate heat from infrared lamps, which heat up your body directly. You get a deeper sweat at lower temperatures. It's gentler on the body, making it a great option for those who might find traditional saunas too intense.

  • No sauna? No problem. You can still get all the benefits of infrared sauna with a Sauna Blanket right at home. The Bon Charge Sauna Blanket is a cozy, wrap-around blanket with infrared heat. Use code WELLWITHMICH for 15% off.

All of these options give you the benefits of sauna. It really comes down to personal preference, access and what feels best for your body.

How Often & How Long Should You Sauna For?

Aim for four to seven 15-20 minute sessions per week. This frequency has been shown to maximize the health benefits of sauna. Although, even just 2 to 3 times a week can be beneficial.

If 15-20 minutes feels too intense, start with less time and build up your tolerance slowly.

Remember, drink lots of water before, during and after the sauna since sweating will make you dehydrated.

Time to heat up your wellness routine and get all the benefits of sauna!

*This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice.