Why Sauna if I’m Healthy?
Saunas have been used for thousands of years, but recently, they've become a mainstream tool for improving health and wellness. While many people associate saunas with sweating out toxins and relaxation, there are many reasons why someone should sauna, even if they consider themselves healthy.
Detoxification: Saunas are great for helping your body sweat out toxins, which can accumulate from pollutants, medications, and yes, even stress. The skin is our largest organ and one of its primary functions is sweating. When you sweat, your body releases a variety of toxins, including heavy metals, chemicals, and metabolic waste.
The average American is exposed to heavy metals and chemicals on a daily basis, in varying amounts depending on their lifestyle, occupation, and location.
Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium can be found in air, water, food, and everyday products such as cosmetics, batteries, and electronics. When these products are disposed of in landfills, they release toxic chemicals into the soil and groundwater over time, meaning we are all exposed to these harmful chemicals to some degree. Exposure to heavy metals can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or absorption through the skin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over 95% of the US population has been exposed to lead, and nearly all Americans have detectable levels of mercury in their blood. Even a healthy Regular sauna sessions can help your body flush these toxins out, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized, while lowering your overall toxic load.
Stress Relief: Even if you consider yourself healthy, stress can take a toll on your body and mind. Saunas are a great way to unwind and relax, reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of calm. As you sit in the sauna, your body releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that can help you feel more relaxed and content.
Immune System Boost: While saunas are not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise, they can help give your immune system a boost. Studies have shown that regular sauna sessions can increase white blood cell counts, which are essential for fighting off infections and diseases.
Cardiovascular Health: Saunas have been shown to improve cardiovascular health by increasing circulation and lowering blood pressure. In fact, regular sauna use has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.
Skin Health: Saunas can also benefit your skin by improving blood flow and unclogging pores. As you sweat, your body releases oils and dead skin cells, leaving your skin looking and feeling healthier. Additionally, the increased blood flow can help your skin heal faster and reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes.
It is easier to prevent health problems than it is to fix them, and using a sauna regularly will help your health. There have been several studies that have looked at the relationship between sauna use and mortality rates, with many suggesting that regular sauna use can have a positive impact on overall health and longevity.
One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in 2015 looked at the sauna use of over 2,000 middle-aged men in Finland over the course of 20 years. The study found that men who used a sauna 2-3 times per week had a 24% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to those who only used a sauna once per week. Men who used a sauna 4-7 times per week had an even greater reduction in mortality risk, with a 40% lower risk of all-cause mortality.
Another study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology in 2018 looked at over 170,000 participants in a long-term population-based study in China. The study found that frequent sauna use (defined as 4-7 times per week) was associated with a 61% lower risk of stroke compared to infrequent sauna use (defined as less than once per week).
Saunas offer a wide range of health benefits, regardless of your current health status. Whether you're looking to detoxify your body, reduce stress, boost your immune system, improve your cardiovascular health, or enhance your skin health, regular sauna sessions can help you achieve your goals. So, if you haven't tried a sauna yet, why not give it a go and see how it can improve your overall health and well-being?
Come try out our infrared saunas at Big Wave Industries and see the results.
