SAUNA

A 2015 study from Finland found that people who used a sauna 4–7 times per week had a 50% lower risk of fatal cardiovascular diseases compared to those who used it once per week. Sauna bathing helps improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and enhance heart function—all key factors in longevity.

Sauna use triggers heat shock proteins, which help repair damaged cells, reduce inflammation, and protect against age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer. Chronic inflammation is a major driver of aging, and sauna therapy helps combat this.

Sauna bathing triggers endorphin release, lowers cortisol, and promotes relaxation. Studies show that regular sauna use is linked to a 66% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The increase in circulation, detoxification, and reduced inflammation may help protect brain cells and support cognitive function as we age.

Sauna bathing promotes deep, restorative sleep by helping the body relax, reducing cortisol (the stress hormone), and triggering the release of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. The rise in body temperature during a sauna session, followed by a gradual cooldown, mimics the body's natural sleep cycle, signaling it’s time to rest. This process can lead to faster sleep onset, deeper sleep stages, and overall improved sleep quality.

Sauna use can boost metabolism and support weight management by increasing heart rate, circulation, and calorie burn—similar to moderate exercise. As your body works to cool itself, it expends energy, leading to an increase in metabolic rate. Additionally, regular sauna sessions may help reduce stress and balance hormones, which play a key role in weight regulation and fat storage.

Regular sauna use strengthens the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells, which help the body fight off infections. The heat exposure also triggers a mild fever-like response, enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms. Over time, this can lead to greater resilience against colds, flu, and other illnesses, keeping you healthier year-round.

Sauna therapy promotes muscle recovery and pain relief by increasing circulation and oxygen flow to tired or injured muscles, helping to reduce soreness and speed up healing. The heat also helps relax tense muscles, loosen stiff joints, and reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for athletes, chronic pain sufferers, and those recovering from injuries. Additionally, the release of endorphins and heat shock proteins further aids in pain management and overall recovery.