Unlock Joy and Wellness: Why You Should Never Skip the Gym Sauna, According to New Study
If you’re seeking a soothing way to enhance your well-being, sauna bathing might just be the answer you’re looking for. Recent studies highlight the positive health effects associated with regular sauna use, ranging from improved energy and mood to better sleep and lower blood pressure. This article delves into the health benefits of sauna baths and offers insights on how to incorporate this practice into your wellness routine.
Building on previous anecdotal evidence, a study published in the International Journal of Circumpolar Health revealed a variety of benefits linked to sauna bathing. Participants reported experiencing:
- Less pain
- Lower levels of anxiety
- Increased energy and happiness
- Improved sleep
- Fewer hypertension diagnoses
Dr. Rita Redberg, a professor of cardiology and health policy expert, emphasized the importance of spending time in the sauna, stating, “Clearly time spent in the sauna is time well spent.”
Study Overview
This study, conducted in Sweden, surveyed 971 individuals aged 25 to 74 about their sauna habits. The results revealed that 66% of participants who regularly used the sauna reported better overall and mental health. Notably, even those who practiced sauna bathing just once to four times a month experienced noteworthy health benefits.
Investigating Saunas’ Effect on the Body
This isn’t the first study to uncover the health perks of sauna bathing, particularly among populations in Nordic regions. In Finnish culture, which boasts around 3.3 million saunas for a population of 5.5 million, several studies have pointed to links between frequent sauna use and reduced risks of:
- Sudden cardiac death
- Fatal coronary heart disease
- Fatal cardiovascular disease
- Mortality from all causes
A review conducted in Finland noted that sauna bathing is “linked to a remarkable array of health benefits,” particularly for those with cardiovascular issues. The recent Swedish study adds to this accumulating body of knowledge.
Dr. Thomas Heston from the University of Washington highlighted a significant finding: the “9.1% absolute reduction in self-reported hypertension among sauna users.” This finding suggests that for every 11 individuals who sauna bathe regularly, one case of hypertension could potentially be prevented, approaching the effects of certain medical treatments.
Mental Health Benefits
The study also revealed a correlation between sauna bathing and mental health. More than 40% of participants who used saunas reported experiencing anxiety or mild depression, while nearly 47% of non-sauna users reported similar feelings. However, researchers caution that more studies are needed to solidify these associations.
Dr. Brent Bauer, a physician with experience in integrative medicine, emphasized the need for caution in interpreting these results, as many insights were based on participants’ recollections. Additionally, external factors like leisure time and socioeconomic status could influence health outcomes.
Why Are Saunas Good for Your Health?
Despite the necessity for further research, several theories explain how sauna bathing might contribute to enhanced health, as shared by study author Åsa Engström, PhD. One primary factor could be the heat exposure that saunas provide:
- A 2024 review indicated that heat therapy may lower dementia risk and alleviate headaches.
- Similar physiological responses to those induced by moderate exercise may occur during sauna use, including better sleep quality and improved cognitive health.
- Heat exposure promotes blood vessel dilation, potentially aiding in blood pressure regulation and improving vascular health.
- Post-sauna cooling mimics the body’s natural sleep onset, promoting relaxation.
- Endorphins released during sauna sessions may enhance mood and lower pain perception.
Beyond just the physical aspects, the social environment of sauna bathing is likely beneficial. Many participants reported enjoying sauna sessions with friends, contributing to the overall health benefits. Various hypotheses suggest that both physiological reactions and the effects on the autonomic nervous system may play a role.
Incorporating Sauna Bathing into Your Routine
Experts agree that more frequent sauna bathing might prove beneficial for health. However, the ideal sauna regimen is still unclear. Some suggest that greater frequency and longer sessions correlate with enhanced health outcomes. A 2017 study indicated that engaging in four to seven sauna sessions each week could deliver significant blood pressure benefits.
Interestingly, the latest study found benefits plateaued at one to four sauna sessions per month. Participants primarily opted for electric saunas at temperatures between 60°C to 80°C (140°F to 176°F), spending approximately 15-20 minutes in each session.
Currently, most research has focused on traditional electric saunas, but infrared saunas are gaining popularity. While there is no definitive evidence suggesting any specific sauna type is superior, researchers caution that additional studies are needed.
Finally, it’s essential to understand that sauna bathing should complement other healthy lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Doing so may amplify the overall benefits of sauna bathing.
