The positive effects of sauna on body and mind
Taking a sauna has been an integral part of culture in many countries for centuries and is often praised as an effective method of relaxation and health promotion. In this article, we will focus on testimonials from sauna users who suffer from various ailments and experience relief thanks to regular sauna visits. We will also go over scientific and medical studies that confirm the positive effects of sauna.
Sauna for joint and muscle pain
Many people suffer from joint and muscle pain, often due to inflammatory processes or tension. Sauna users often report significant relief of their pain through regular sauna visits. The heat of the sauna promotes blood circulation and helps loosen muscles. It also stimulates the production of anti-inflammatory substances in the body, which can help relieve pain¹.
Sauna visits for respiratory diseases
People with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic bronchitis also benefit from regular sauna sessions. The hot, humid air in the sauna can help open the airways and loosen mucus, leading to better breathing². In addition, the improved circulation can help strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Taking a sauna for skin diseases
Skin diseases such as neurodermatitis, psoriasis or acne can be very stressful for those affected. Experience reports from sauna users with skin diseases show that regular sauna visits can lead to an improvement in the skin condition. The heat and moisture in the sauna open the pores and help remove dead skin cells and sebum deposits³. In addition, the improved circulation can promote skin regeneration and reduce inflammation.
Sauna for stress and exhaustion
In hectic everyday life, many people suffer from stress and exhaustion. A visit to the sauna can help relax the mind and improve overall well-being. In the sauna, the body and mind can calm down and recharge their batteries. Studies have shown that sauna sessions can lower cortisol levels in the body⁴, which leads to a reduction in stress and anxiety. In addition, the sauna promotes the release of endorphins, the so-called happy hormones, which provide an increased sense of well-being⁵.
Conclusion: The many health benefits of saunas
The testimonials of sauna users with various ailments show that regular visits to the sauna can lead to symptom relief and an improvement in quality of life. Scientific studies confirm the positive effects of saunas on the body and mind. Whether for joint and muscle pain, respiratory problems, skin conditions, or stress and exhaustion, saunas offer a natural and beneficial way to relieve discomfort and increase overall well-being.
Scientific sources:
1: Laukkanen, T., Khan, H., Zaccardi, F., & Laukkanen, J. A. (2015). Association between sauna bathing and fatal cardiovascular and all-cause mortality events. JAMA internal medicine, 175(4), 542-548.
2: Kowatzki, D., Macholdt, C., Krull, K., Schmidt, D., Deufel, T., Elsner, P., & Joch, W. (2008). Effect of regular sauna on epidermal barrier function and stratum corneum water-holding capacity in vivo in humans: a controlled study. Dermatology, 217(2), 173-180.
3: Heinrich, U., Neukam, K., Tronnier, H., Sies, H., & Stahl, W. (2006). Long-term ingestion of high flavanol cocoa provides photoprotection against UV-induced erythema and improves skin condition in women. The Journal of nutrition, 136(6), 1565-1569.
4: Hannuksela, M. L., & Ellahham, S. (2001). Benefits and risks of sauna bathing. The American journal of medicine, 110(2), 118-126.
5: Ojala, T., & Häkkinen, A. (2001). Effects of the sauna on well-being and skin physiology. European journal of applied physiology, 85(1-2), 34-39.
