Sauna therapy involves subjecting the body to high temperatures that allows sweating, which is able to penetrate inside the skin to bring about a healing effect. This therapy is popularly used as a spa treatment across the globe. It is thought to be helpful in maintaining health as well as causes relaxation of the body mind and soul.
Principle
Ideally, there have been three basic types of sauna; namely,
- Traditional Saunas – Use of small space with a heater. This allows heavy sweating due to high temperature. In this, sweating begins quickly and there is less time spent in heating up.
- Infrared electric light saunas – heating with the help of incandescent infrared heat lamps. This infrared heat is allowed to penetrate inside through the skin. Infrared heat has antioxidant properties that help to activate the body processes and eliminate toxins as well.
- Far infrared saunas – Heating metallic or ceramic elements to emit far infrared heat. This heat causes deep sweating, which promotes cleansing and detoxification, thus helping in weight management.
Method
Sauna therapy is practiced as a part of wellness therapies and is mostly found in health centers or spas. The specific method of taking this therapy may differ and it is advisable to follow the instructions given by the specific health therapist.
As a general rule, before taking up sauna therapy, one should avoid taking heavy meals and make sure to have plenty of water as it induces sweating. Metal accessories are to be removed and addition of sea salts can be considered. Depending on the type of sauna therapy, light clothing may be worn while in traditional sauna, while the other heat rays are better to be taken directly on the skin, so it is better to sit on a towel.
This therapy session is practiced for 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the health condition. One must follow the stepwise directions of preheating, during therapy and final finishing stage after the actual sauna therapy to experience maximum benefits.
Benefits
Sauna therapy is well known to restore skin health, by allowing the toxins to get eliminated. It helps to produce a fresh looking, rejuvenated skin that glows than ever. Increased sweating allows the body to get rid of toxins and provides relief for the major internal organs like kidneys and liver. Another major benefit it provides is that it helps to improve circulation and provide the health benefits of exercising. Pregnant ladies and young child should avoid sauna therapy.
