5 Benefits of Sauna and Steam

Finland continually ranks highest on the measures of the happiest and healthiest countries in the world. One of the key differences may be their love for saunas and steam rooms.

It has over 3 million of them, and they show up everywhere. They realize the benefits of frequent trips to these warm rooms, and it’s become a part of the country’s culture.

America has also started to install them in spas and resorts, and it’s helped them become happier and healthier. Read on to learn about five significant benefits of sauna and steam rooms.

That’s not the only reason to get one, though. Read on to learn six reasons to seek a spa treatment this winter.

1. Reduce Systemic Inflammation

Chronic inflammatory diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide. At least 3 in 5 patients die from them worldwide every year. Inflammation is linked to conditions such as:

Strokes
Respiratory and heart disorders
Cancer
Obesity
Diabetes

One of the major benefits of saunas and steam rooms is that they can reduce inflammation. This can help treat or prevent these diseases.

2. Promotes Blood Circulation

The heat of saunas and steam rooms increases your heart rate and blood circulation. It has similar health benefits to a cardio workout, including:

Lower blood pressure
Faster skin tissue healing
Improved complexion
Better brain function

This doesn’t mean you should replace exercise with steam. Let them work together to keep your blood flowing.

3. Removes Toxins From the Body

Heat and steam have been found to help you sweat out toxins that can damage your body. A few examples include phthalates, BPA, and heavy metals.

Phthalates are dangerous to the reproductive and neurological systems and the developmental systems of children. These compounds are found in the following:

Plastic
Cooking utensils
Nail polish
Cosmetics
Paint

Bisphenol A, or BPA, is a compound used in transparent plastics. It can lead to obesity, sexual dysfunction, and even pregnancy loss.

Heavy metals include arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. These are suspected carcinogens and can damage the stomach, the kidneys as well as the immune and reproductive systems.

4. Glowy Skin

Heat improves your overall wellness but is also great for your appearance. Visiting a sauna or steam room as part of your regular routine will leave you with glowy skin.

The heat keeps toxins away and opens up your pores. The condensation will rinse away dirt and dead skin to prevent breakouts. Your skin will also become more elastic and firm to keep you looking young.

5. Reduced Joint Stiffness and Muscle Soreness

Sweating in a sauna or steam room is great for your skin when you’re active, and using a sauna also helps with workout recovery and warmups. Heat loosens up joints and muscles while increasing flexibility.

This can also reduce the pain from stiff, aching joints and body aches. It can even reduce the muscle soreness that causes tension headaches.

Where to Get the Benefits of Sauna and Steam Rooms

The benefits of saunas and steam rooms are only starting to become apparent, migrating from Europe to America. They’re worth regular trips because they’re relaxing and can improve your overall health.

Saunas reduce inflammation and promote blood circulation. They remove toxins and leave your skin glowing. And saunas decrease joint stiffness and muscle soreness before and after workouts.