Health Benefits
There are many benefits of saunas, all of which are well documented, but to recap we have outlined the key physical benefits that saunas offer to people:
Physical Health Benefits
Mental relaxation: Heat and quiet environment help reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels.
Muscle relaxation: Warmth eases muscle tension while also relieving stress.
Improved sleep: Many people report better sleep quality after sauna sessions.
Improved circulation: Heat dilates blood vessels, enhancing blood flow and reducing blood pressure temporarily.
Heart health: Regular sauna use has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.
Cleanses skin: Sweating helps open pores and removes impurities.
Improved skin tone: Increased circulation can improve the skin’s overall appearance.
Sweating promotes the elimination of toxins and other impurities from the body.
Reduces inflammation: Heat helps alleviate joint and muscle pain, which can benefit conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia.
Enhanced recovery: Promotes faster recovery from workouts by improving circulation and reducing muscle soreness.
Regular sauna sessions may help increase white blood cell production, enhancing your body's ability to fight infections.
For some, saunas may help relieve respiratory issues such as congestion or mild asthma by loosening mucus and improving lung function (especially in steam saunas).
Mental Health & Wellbeing
There are additional wellbeing and mental health benefits that saunas provide.
Endorphin release: Heat encourages the release of feel-good hormones, promoting a sense of well-being.
Mindfulness opportunity: The peaceful environment supports mindfulness and relaxation.
Many cultures use saunas as a social or cultural tradition, promoting connections and a sense of community.
Cold Plunge Pools & Hydrotherapy
A complementary wellness trend is the use of cold plunge pools, which are often paired with saunas in wellness centres. The concept is that alternating between hot (sauna) and cold (plunge pool) can enhance circulation, reduce inflammation, and aid muscle recovery. Consumer Impact: Fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and wellness-focused individuals are increasingly embracing this combination as part of their post-workout recovery or relaxation routine.