The Wonders of Sauna – Boiling down the benefits
The concept of sauna dates back to many ages ago, since the forming of civilizations. Sweating has been used as a therapy for both relaxation and other health benefits. History shows us that the ancient Mayans had been using the so called sweating houses before 3000 years. Nowadays saunas come in all different types and versions, for example, saunas that burn wood, electrically heated saunas, infrared saunas (these use special lamps to heat the human body, it doesn’t heat the entire room) and steam room saunas, in the end it all boiled down to preference.
Now let us talk about the health benefits, so regardless of the type of the sauna, they work in a similar way. They heat up the body, which increases the heart rate with the addition of blood vessels broadening. The key factor which plays the important part for the health is the increase in heartbeat.
So how can, the increased heartbeat, contribute? It relieves physical pain, muscle soreness and it improves joint movement and flexibility. This is why some fitness centres, build up saunas next to the shower rooms, because after a intensive training, the body may relax and rejuvenate, which gives out a feeling of vigor.
Another essential benefit of the sauna is the reduction of stress levels. This is connected largely to the aforementioned, ladder reason which I explained. By reducing stress, on the other hand, a person lowers the risk of contracting cardiovascular disease. People who use sauna on regular basis, have an approximate chance of 61% to avoid suffering from stroke or other heart connected problems. By regular basis, I mean 4-7 times a week.
There are many other benefits that come along with the usage of sauna, but those are possible, even likely benefits, but still not 100% certain. Positive results have been witnessed in terms of skin problems, asthma and sometimes in Alzheimer. A research was conducted in 1996 and after 20 years of data and information running wild among researchers, it was concluded that saunas lower the risk of diseases such as dementia and the aforementioned Alzheimer. A group of men who attended the sauna 2 or 3 times a week were 22% less likely to get dementia and 20% less likely to get Alzheimer, and those who used the sauna 4 to 7 times a week, improved their chances to the mesmerizing 66% to 65%.
As with every other thing in life, there are some drawbacks here and there, and saunas are no exception. There are a lot of risks, especially for those who have certain conditions and health problems. While using the sauna, a person runs the risk of high blood pressure and dehydration, which should not be underestimated.
In conclusion, saunas can do you more good than bad, but as with anything it should not be overlooked. It’s benefits significantly outweigh it’s drawbacks, so rest assured nothing bad will come out of it! If relaxation and well-being are your main concerns, than saunas are the right thing for you!
