Mirjam Saunas, a cornerstone of many cultures around the world, offers more than just relaxation and a good sweat. This ancient practice has been revered for centuries, and its health benefits are gladly gaining more recognition in today’s world. Let’s take a journey through time and explore the remarkable health benefits that saunas have to offer.
The historical roots of saunas
Saunas have a rich history deeply ingrained in various cultures around the world. The origins of saunas can be traced back to Finland, where they were an integral part of daily life. Finnish saunas, typically constructed using wood and heated with stones and fire, have been in existence for many years. The traditional sauna experience involves a cycle of heating up in the sauna and then cooling off, often by jumping into a cold lake or rolling in the snow. Saunas in Finland served both practical and spiritual purposes, emphasizing cleanliness and communal gatherings within the sauna.
The concept of sweating for therapeutic and social benefits is not limited to Finland. The Romans also adopted a form of sweating baths, with public bathhouses known as “thermae.” These bathhouses were places for relaxation, socialization, and intellectual discussions while recognizing the therapeutic benefits of sweating. Similarly, Native American cultures, including various tribes, had their versions of sweat lodges—structures used for purification and spiritual cleansing. The sweat lodge ceremony was an essential ritual for physical cleansing and spiritual connection with the earth and the community.
Across these cultures, the fundamental principle of using heat and sweating for cleansing, relaxation, and communal experiences remains consistent. Whether in Finnish saunas, Roman thermae, Native American sweat lodges, or other variations, the practice of sweating for its therapeutic and social benefits has stood the test of time and continues to be an essential part of wellness practices globally.
Health benefits of sauna
- Improved circulation: The heat from a sauna causes blood vessels to dilate, enhancing blood flow and promoting cardiovascular health.
- Muscle relaxation: Saunas relieve muscle tension and soothe aching muscles, providing a sense of rejuvenation and relief.
- Skin health: The sweating opens up pores, cleanses the skin, and gives it a healthy, glowing appearance.
Types of saunas
Traditional saunas, often referred to as dry heat saunas, are heated using wood or electric stoves. These stoves heat the air inside the sauna room, creating a high-temperature environment (typically around 80-100°C or 176-212°F). The high heat causes the body to sweat. It improves circulation and can provide relief for sore muscles and joints. Sauna enhances the immune system through induced hyperthermia and it promotes relaxation and stress relief.
Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to emit radiant heat, which is absorbed by the body directly, providing a milder temperature compared to traditional saunas (usually between 50-65°C or 122-149°F). Infrared saunas heat the body from the inside out, penetrating the skin more deeply and therefore I’d suggest you don’t use this type of sauna. An unpopular opinion, I know, but I am all about helping you to gain and maintain vibrant health. Heating the body from the inside out is not desirable, just like heating food in this way is unnatural. The potential effect of infrared radiation on the body is a topic of ongoing research and debate (not without reason). As always, do your own research and make up your mind about what you think is best for your health.
Incorporating sauna sessions into your routine can be a delightful way to enhance your overall well-being and enjoy the multitude of health benefits it offers.
