Saunas have been used for centuries for their potential physical and psychological benefits. Here are some of the psychological benefits that saunas may offer:
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Stress reduction: Saunas can help reduce stress by promoting relaxation and releasing tension in the body. Heat therapy has been shown to increase the release of endorphins, which are natural chemicals in the body that help promote relaxation and reduce stress.
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Improved sleep: Regular sauna use has been shown to improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Improved sleep can lead to better overall mood and cognitive functioning.
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Enhanced mood: The release of endorphins during sauna use can also lead to enhanced mood and a greater sense of well-being. Additionally, sauna use has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression in some individuals.
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Socialization: Saunas can provide a space for socialization and connection with others. Sharing a sauna with others can foster a sense of community and connection, which can have positive effects on mental health.
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Mindfulness: Saunas can provide a space for mindfulness and meditation. The relaxing and calming environment of a sauna can help individuals focus on the present moment and reduce racing thoughts and anxiety.
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Improved cognitive function: Sauna use has been linked to improved cognitive function, including better memory and attention. One study found that regular sauna use was associated with a reduced risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
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Detoxification: Saunas can help eliminate toxins from the body through sweating. This process can help improve overall physical health and may also have psychological benefits by promoting a sense of cleanliness and well-being.
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Improved self-esteem: Regular sauna use can help improve self-esteem by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Additionally, the physical benefits of sauna use, such as improved skin health and weight loss, can also contribute to improved self-esteem.
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Pain relief: Saunas can help relieve pain by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis.
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Increased resilience: Regular sauna use has been linked to increased resilience to stress and illness. This may be due in part to the stress-reducing and immune-boosting effects of sauna use.
Overall, saunas may offer a range of psychological benefits that can help improve overall mental health and well-being. However, it is important to use saunas safely and to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new health regimen, including sauna use.
SOURCES:
KUKKONEN-HARJULA, K., & KAUPPINEN, K. (2006). HEALTH EFFECTS AND RISKS OF SAUNA BATHING. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CIRCUMPOLAR HEALTH, 65(3), 195-205.LAUKKANEN, T., KUNUTSOR, S. K., KHAN, H., WILLEIT, P., ZACCARDI, F., & LAUKKANEN, J. A. (2018). SAUNA BATHING IS ASSOCIATED WITH REDUCED CARDIOVASCULAR MORTALITY AND IMPROVES RISK PREDICTION IN MEN AND WOMEN: A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY. BMC MEDICINE, 16(1), 1-10.
MASUDA, A., NAKAZATO, M., KIHARA, T., MINAGOE, S., & TEI, C. (2005). REPEATED SAUNA TREATMENT IMPROVES VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL AND CARDIAC FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEART FAILURE. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF CARDIOLOGY, 39(5), 754-759.
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SUTKOWY, P., WOŹNIAK, A., BORACZYŃSKI, T., MILA-KIERZENKOWSKA, C., & SZPINDA, M. (2015). INFLUENCE OF SAUNA BATHING ON PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH. JOURNAL OF HUMAN KINETICS, 49(1), 135-142.
VUORI, I. (1988). SAUNA BATHING AND CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION. JOURNAL OF HUMAN HYPERTENSION, 2(4), 261-266.