Using a sauna is not only relaxing, but it also has health benefits associated with it. It opens your pores to release toxins through sweating. It may also help to relieve muscle tension and improve the immune system through perspiration. Saunas are safe for everyday use; follow these suggestions to get the most benefits out of your sauna usage.

Use

Going into the sauna after a stressful day or following a workout is ideal to relieve muscle tension and enjoy quiet relaxation, and may even be used safely each day. Before you use a sauna at home or elsewhere, following these common etiquette guidelines will help make the sauna more enjoyable. Whether you use a private or public sauna, showering beforehand will allow you to sweat out more toxins. Going into the sauna already wet will increase sweat production to cool down the body and simultaneously open pores for toxin removal. A shower after each use will rinse away sweat and toxins, leaving the skin clean and refreshed. Sweating while you have a cold or flu will also encourage the virus to exit the body, boosting the immune system.

Time

Since the sauna is heat-based, it is not meant to be used for long periods of time. Five to 15 minutes is adequate to provide a relaxing session after a stressful day or workout. Those who are new to a sauna may only be able to tolerate a short period of time at first, but eventually will become able to stay inside for the maximum 15 minutes. Temperatures in the sauna may range from 60 to 100° Celsius (140 to 212° Fahrenheit) but setting the temperature depends on your personal preference. Within the sauna, small amounts of water should be placed over the stones to increase humidity to the air to prevent respiratory ailments like dry nose or scratchy throat.

Frequency

There are no ill health effects with using a sauna frequently; however, using it daily may dry out your skin. When you are finished with the sauna session, and have taken a shower, apply moisturizer to the skin to keep it hydrated. If you have high blood pressure or are pregnant, check with your physician for approval to use a sauna. Never drink alcohol before enjoying the sauna: The heat lowers blood pressure and drinking may cause an even more significant drop in blood pressure, as mentioned in the Journal of Internal Medicine: Alcohol and Sauna Bathing.

Source:

Sauna and Your Health

Five Tips on How to Use a Sauna

How to Bathe in a Finnish Sauna