What happens to our body when we sweat in the sauna?
In many countries, saunas are celebrated with dignity. Sauna, banya, hamman or sento, the traditional Japanese bathhouse – there are many names for the sweat room. Different infusions contribute to the well-being. The heat and steam are said to have many good properties. Not only because of better blood circulation, but simply to enjoy the peace and quiet. Every sauna-goer has good reasons for visiting the sauna.
Taking a sauna can do many things, such as:
- Strengthening of the immune system
- Strengthening of the organism
- Lowering blood pressure
- Stimulation of the circulation
- Relaxed muscles
- Beautiful skin
- Rest and relaxation
How sauna affects body, mind and soul
Some people consider a visit to the sauna to be an imposition on the body. Because the change between hot and cold demands a lot from the body. At the latest, when sweat beads cover first the forehead and then the whole body and the heart in the chest hums, the realization comes: saunieren is incredibly strenuous. However, numerous studies have shown that sauna bathing has many advantages that are associated with the health-promoting aspects mentioned above. The health benefits and well-being are mainly related to regular saunas. Approximately the way the Finns do it.
The right temperature for everyone
Temperatures in the sauna start as low as 50 to 60 degrees (122 to 140 °F) . These temperatures are suitable for people who struggle with high blood pressure. However, the right sauna feeling develops between 80 and 100 degrees (176 to 212 °F). Hardcore sauna-goers, on the other hand, treat themselves to temperatures of up to 110 degrees (230 °F) in the earth sauna. Here, sauna-goers sweat for a slightly shorter time, but they benefit from the extremely low humidity. This type of sauna is by no means for beginners. And certainly not for people with health problems.
The right infusion for every condition
The sauna process is often celebrated as a ceremony by sauna masters. In contrast to the home sauna, it is rarely possible to benefit from the desired sauna oil in public saunas. However, there are common infusion scents that are also frequently used in public saunas.
There is a herb for everything:
- Mint and eucalyptus: help against colds and to breathe deeply.
- Lemon: activates breathing
- Sage: has a stimulating effect
- Birch: is diaphoretic, nurturing and wound healing
- Herbs: have a calming and relaxing effect
What happens in the body during sweating?
Ambitious sauna-goers choose between 80 and 100 degrees (176 to 212 °F). Sometimes even a little higher. The enormously high heat warms the surface of the skin. In addition, the blood vessels dilate. In addition, the temperature in the body rises somewhat during sauna bathing. This is called “artificial fever” and has the effect that pathogens in the body can be destroyed.
The interaction of hot and cold is ideal for stimulating the circulation and also the metabolism. Here it is called, much drinking, in order not to overload the circulation. Sweating also prevents over-acidification of the muscles. Which at the same time provides for a good blood circulation of the muscles.
The subsequent cooling down quickly brings the body back to normal temperature. In the process, the blood flow is throttled and the blood vessels contract. The flexibility of the blood vessels improves noticeably, which has a positive effect on blood pressure. If regular sauna sessions reduce high blood pressure, the risk of cardiovascular disease can be reduced.
In short, a sauna session consists of a sweating phase in the sauna, a cooling phase in the cold bath and a resting phase. The extreme temperature fluctuations relax the muscles, stimulate the circulation and lower blood pressure.
Correct sauna use
All the positive effects for body, mind and soul are of no use if the sauna-goer does not sauna properly.
The procedure:
- Shower off before taking a sauna
- Depending on how you feel, take two to three saunas – usually eight to 15 minutes.
- Cooling down in cold water – always from the feet towards the heart
- Resting phase – at least as long as the sauna session
During the sauna session:
- Pay attention to the well-being
- Leave the sauna if you have health problems
Further tips:
Saunas should be drunk at the end of the last sauna session. This is because sweating removes water from the blood and consequently the fluid from the tissues enters the blood, thus preventing purification. Drinking should sauna-goers before and after.
Little to no talking, so that circulation and respiration are not additionally loaded.
Taking a sauna acts like a natural peeling. Afterward, do not immediately lather up and apply lotion.
Conclusion
A sauna visit has many positive effects on the entire organism. It strengthens the immune system, promotes blood circulation, lowers blood pressure, relaxes the muscles and improves the appearance of the skin. In addition, the alternation of heat and cold stimulates the circulation and metabolism, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is essential to choose the right temperature and infusion, to pay attention to your own well-being and to leave the sauna in case of health problems.
