Saunas can be equal to a workout
Yes, you read that right. Researchers from Germany found that 25-minute of sauna session is as tiring as a moderate workout. In the study, participant’s heart rate and blood pressure were measured. It was found that both the parameters rose in the sauna and then dropped below the baseline afterwards. This was same for those who rode a stationary bike at a moderate intensity. Heat puts stress on your heart in the same way exercise does.
Sauna supports your mental health
A new research shows that sauna bathing improves cardiac autonomic nervous system balance. This leads to an increase in vagal tone and a decrease in sympathetic tone and better heart rate variability. All this means a sauna session can result in body and mind relaxation. Using sauna reduces the risk of mental disorders, but further studies need to confirm that.
Sauna can keep your blood pressure in check
A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension found that people who went for sauna four to five times a week were at 50 per cent less risk of developing high blood pressure as compared to people who went to sauna only once a week. This happens as your body temperature rises and your blood vessels open-up and function better, which improves your overall blood pressure.
Sauna boosts your immune system
Spending time in sauna can be even better during the cold and flu season. A single 15-minute sauna session can raise your white blood cell, lymphocyte, neutrophil and basophil count. Research says the stress put on your body by the sauna’s heat gives your immune system a jumpstart.
Saunas lower your risk of stroke
According to a 2018 study published in the Journal Neurology, men and women who had 4 and 7 sauna sessions every week were 61 per cent less likely to have a stroke than people who went to sauna only once a week.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details.
