Sauna Benefits: Are Saunas Healthy or Harmful?

During a recent visit to Infinity Health and Wellness, Cheryl, the proprietor suggested that I spend some time in a sauna to take advantage of further detoxification benefits. I’ve never been a big sauna person. I’m always on the go. In fact, it is very hard for me to sit still… at all. So the thought of sitting still, in the heat, in an enclosed room while sweating, has never been very attractive to me. However, since I am always searching for ways to improve my wellbeing, I decided to check out the sauna at LA Fitness. I walked into the sauna with my magazine ready to sit down, read, and pass the time. However, I couldn’t even concentrate on reading because it was too hot. At first, I felt like I could breathe. As a result, I was forced to just lay on the bench and be still. I stripped down to the least amount of clothes that I could and still be modest. Then finally started to feel the effects.

So, what are the health benefits of time in a sauna?

Reduced stress – The build-up of chemicals caused by stress increases the feelings of tension, which result in insomnia, headaches, and a constant feeling of anxiety. When you sit in a sauna, those stress-induced chemicals are eliminated from your body when you perspire, and you are left in a much more relaxed state of mind and body.

Detoxification – Your body accumulate toxins from the food you eat and the air you breathe, and these toxins can cause some serious health problems. These harmful toxins are released when you perspire, through the pores in your skin, leaving you feeling great, and with a healthier, smoother-looking skin. Weight loss – It’s a known fact that being overweight is unhealthy, and a sauna is an awesome way to get rid of those extra pounds. The sweating, as well as the increased heart rate and blood circulation, is much the same as doing light exercises – body fat is burned, and you lose weight. Fights colds and flu – A fever triggers the increased production of white blood cells as well as other cells in the body to help fight the symptoms of the flu. Sitting in a sauna makes your body heat up pretty much like a fever, and triggers the body into fighting colds and flu. The body’s immune system becomes stronger, breathing becomes a lot easier, and it also helps to clear the mucous from congested airway passages and sinuses.

Alleviates joint and muscle pain – Arthritis sufferers benefit tremendously from the heat in a sauna, because the increased temperature improves blood circulation by causing the blood vessels to expand. This means that more nutrients are carried to the affected areas, thus reducing pain and inflammation, and speeding up the healing process as well. Joints and muscles will have more flexibility too, with the regular use of a sauna. There are many health benefits of time in a sauna, whether for prevention or for healing purposes. It is a great way to get rid of the stresses of everyday life, and also an extremely effective way to improve your general health and well-being. How many of you take some time out in the sauna? Let me know in the comments!

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Karin Coger has been a trial attorney, entrepreneur, blogger and coach for many years. Karin owns and operates multiple businesses both online and brick and mortar. Her background makes her often sought out to build growth strategies for small business alike.Karin works hand in hand with business minded people to help them improve their quality of life!For more hard hitting wellness information go to: livinglifelovely.com/

Posted on 2014-06-25, By: Karin Coger *

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