What are the Benefits of the Sauna?

My sisters have been asking me about the benefits of the sauna ever since I made them sit in it with me after our polar bear plunge! Saunas have a long tradition, starting in Finland, where bathers expose themselves to temperatures from 175 to over 210 degrees F for the purpose of relaxation and pleasure. Studies have now been able to show the following health benefits linked to saunas (of course, if practiced safely):

• Improved cardiovascular health.  Traditional and infrared saunas warm up the core temperature of the body. As the temperature of blood vessels near the skin increase, they dilate, which increases circulation.​ Regular sauna usage has been shown to reduce the risk of fatal cardiac incidents, stroke, and hypertension, as well as vascular diseases such as high blood pressure. 
• Recovery for sore muscles and joints. Increased circulation speeds the body’s natural healing process in muscles as well as improving conditions such as arthritis, 
• Detoxification. Sweating can help reduce levels of lead, copper, zinc, nickel, mercury and other chemicals - which are all toxins commonly absorbed in our daily environments. As you know, your body sweats a lot in the heat of the sauna!
• Improves brain and memory health. Regular sauna use may lower the risk for both Alzheimer’s & Dementia.
• Better health. In the heat of a sauna, the body produces white blood cells more rapidly, which in turn helps to fight illnesses and kill viruses. In addition, saunas can relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of sinus congestion from colds or allergies, headache, and flu.
• Improved sleep. Sauna bathers may enjoy more relaxed sleep or REM sleep. 
• Skin health and antiaging benefits. Heat bathing is one of the oldest skin cleaners with the production of sweat glands and replacement of dead skin cells. This keeps your skin in good working condition while keeping bacteria out of the epidermal layer and sweat ducts.
• Increased metabolism and weight loss. The sweating process requires a notable amount of energy. That energy is derived from the conversion of fat and carbohydrates in a bodily process that burns up calories. 
• Reduced stress and physically makes you feel better. High-heat provided by a sauna, the body releases endorphins which can minimize pain and is often associated with a “runner’s high.” The physiological benefits of the heat calms and stills you, helping you feel better overall.
  
  

Getting into the sauna for 20 minutes once or twice a week can make a difference in your health and wellness. It can make a big difference in your attitude as well! Make sure to drink 16-24 oz of water afterwards. If you don't have one at your local gym, I also do a drop in at a larger chain gym, spa, or friend's house, or even nice neighbors!

References:
https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(18)30275-1/fulltext
https://www.finnleo.com/pages/health-and-wellness
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/saunas-and-your-health