Even When It’s Cold Outside-It’s a Glorious 180 Degrees in the Sauna
iStock.com/FrancescoRidolfi
I recently started using a sauna on a regular basis again and I am loving the benefits. There is good research on saunas —thank you Finland!—showing saunas reduce inflammation, promote relaxation, reduce the risk of stroke and heart attacks, improve other cardiovascular health markers, and increase athletic endurance. While the theory that sweating can promote detoxification is controversial, I have seen it work well as part of a treatment plan for people with chronic conditions and issues related to toxicant exposure. ⠀
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Here are some tips: ⠀
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1) Ask your provider first if sauna therapy is safe for you. ⠀
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2) Alternate hot and cold temps and do ~15 minutes of “hot” in the sauna followed by 1-2 minutes of “cold” in the shower. Do three cycles total and always end on cold. This will lengthen your heat tolerance significantly and increase circulation. ⠀
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3) The hot/cold cycle lengths listed are general guidelines and you should always listen to your body. If your heart rate starts to increase too much or you get light headed, time to get out. If you are just starting to do saunas start at 5 min cycles and work your way up. ⠀
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4) Drink water before, during and after the sauna so you don’t become dehydrated. ⠀
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5) Caution: Do not use saunas if you are pregnant. Also, heat can decrease sperm count/motility so saunas are not recommended if you are trying to conceive within 3 months of sauna time.
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