An essential part of Finnish culture, sauna bathing is more than just a tradition: it can have a great impact on general health and wellbeing. We have listed some of our favorite saunas in Helsinki before, but this week we are focusing on health! Here’s why spending time in the sauna is good for you:
Improved blood circulation
The extreme heat (between 80º and 100º C) inside the sauna causes blood vessels to dilate. In turn, this makes our hearts beat faster to increase the blood flow and keep our blood pressure stable. In fact, our heartbeat is as fast as it would be during moderate exercise!
Additionally, alternating hot periods inside the sauna with a dip in the water or a cold shower may also help stimulate blood vessels by quickly contracting them, further improving their flexibility as well as aiding blood circulation.
A natural detox
In this day and age, where we spend most of our time sitting down, we don’t tend to sweat profusely every day. Saunas give bathers a chance to unclog their pores, for instance, of sebum, dirt, bacteria or dead skin. And as a bonus, once the pores are open and clean, it’s a really good time for skincare!
Relaxing muscles & decreasing stress
While the health benefits of sauna may be contested within the scientific community, it is undeniable that sauna bathing helps with overall wellbeing. The elevated temperatures contribute to relaxing the muscles, and when sitting in the sauna, you are almost forced to do nothing. No smartphones, no laptops—just heat. The added mental health benefits of taking a moment for ourselves are invaluable!
So, enjoy your sauna, and remember to drink plenty of water!
Sauna bathing is associated with some risks as well, especially if your blood pressure is abnormally low. Please ensure you research and consult with a physician if you are unsure!
Photo by Hotel Arthur