The sauna is a topic that comes with mixed feelings. For some folks, the sauna is a space of peace, relaxation, deep thought, and socializing with others. For others, it’s a wooden box of ridiculously-hot temperatures, excessive sweating, and the nose burning just by breathing.

 

But regardless of how you view saunas, did you know that they come with a bunch of health benefits for all? By sitting in the sauna for a few minutes a day, you can effectively keep the doctor away. Let’s take a look at why the sauna deserves to be a part of your daily routine.

 

The sauna aids in weight loss.

 

No, the sauna can’t replace your workout, but it is a great weight loss booster in addition––and with minimal effort. When you sit in the sauna, your heart rate increases due to the dry heat. By sitting in the sauna for about 20 minutes, you can burn calories while sitting down and essentially doing nothing.

 

The sauna helps to flush toxins from your body.

 

Sweat is the human body’s natural way of removing toxins and harmful substances. When you’re in the sauna, you sweat profoundly, even more than you would when performing a typical workout.

 

By sitting in the sauna for twenty minutes, you’ll sweat a lot, effectively flushing out toxins from the body.

 

The sauna may help you perform better in exercise.

 

By using the sauna on a consistent basis, you work to increase your body’s heat tolerance threshold. Basically, you prime your body to be able to withstand higher temperatures and more heat from internal friction (aka movement).

 

Because of this, you’ll also be able to improve your performance in endurance sports that would typically cause you to feel fatigued quickly. You’ll last longer, feel better, and have sustained energy and endurance.

 

The sauna helps you look younger.

 

As we age, our skin naturally becomes less elastic and unable to keep out harmful toxins from the environment. Just as with any other aspect of your body, your skin needs regular “exercise”––and sitting in the sauna is one of the best ways to work it out. 

 

When you sit in the sauna, you improve your blood flow to your skin, which helps to promote the growth of fresh new skin while also removing dead skin cells that may have built up. Also, natural skin oils and antibiotics are mobilized when you sit in the sauna, helping to keep your skin healthy naturally.