A sauna session is a well-known and popular way to relax and improve well-being. However, many people still wonder if the sauna is healthy and how exactly it affects the human body. It turns out that regular sauna treatments can bring numerous health benefits, improving the functioning of many systems and positively affecting mental condition.
How does using a sauna affect the body?
The word "sauna" comes from the Finnish language and means a heat treatment, during which the body is subjected to high temperatures. Depending on whether it is a dry sauna, steam sauna, or infrared sauna, the temperature inside varies from 40 to about 120 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the humidity in the sauna reaches from 5 to even 100%. How does the human body behave in such conditions? High temperature causes the following reactions in the body:
- expansion of superficial blood vessels of the skin, spleen, kidneys, and brain and constriction of vascular trunks in the abdomen and chest area;
- sweating, through which water, sodium chloride, and other minerals are removed from the body;
- contractions and dilations of blood vessels, which contributes to improving their elasticity and better blood supply to organs;
- accelerated and deepened breathing, resulting in increased pulmonary ventilation;
- decreased muscle tension and increased elasticity of muscle fibers, which positively affects joint mobility and reduces pain;
- accelerated metabolism due to the increase in body temperature;
- decreased nerve excitability and receptor sensitivity.
Sauna and heart and blood vessel health
Saunas are known primarily for their beneficial effect on the heart and circulatory system. Sauna visits help lower blood pressure, support the functioning of blood vessels and increase their elasticity, which in turn accelerates and increases blood flow. Combined with regular physical activity, especially general development training, the sauna can contribute to strengthening the heart and improving the functioning of the entire circulatory system, thereby reducing the risk of heart attacks and other diseases.
Positive impact of the sauna on the body's immunity
Sauna treatments are also a popular way to strengthen immunity. During a session, the body produces white blood cells and heat shock proteins that protect cells as the body temperature rises. In addition, they participate in immunological reactions – they occur when the body is attacked by viruses, bacteria, or other microorganisms.
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Therefore, the sauna genuinely contributes to improving the functioning of the immune system and increasing resistance, and with it – reducing the frequency of colds and illnesses such as the flu or other respiratory diseases.
Sauna and support for the respiratory system
In many cases, a visit to the sauna can be successfully combined with aromatherapy. Using appropriate essential oils during a session is an interesting idea for a health-promoting inhalation. Regularly practiced, it can prove to be significant support in the case of allergies or recurring nasal congestion, and at the same time, it can help clear the respiratory tract. If there are no other contraindications, the sauna can also be helpful in treating asthma – regular treatments contribute to improving blood circulation in the lungs, dilating the bronchi, and helping to cleanse them.
The effect of the sauna on skin health and condition
Using a sauna is an excellent method for improving the functioning of both internal organs and the skin, which – as not everyone knows – is the largest organ in the human body. Heat treatments are a great proposal for those who want to take care of the condition and health of their skin. Under the influence of high temperature, skin cleansing from toxins, unblocking of pores, and removal of accumulated impurities takes place. The sauna also affects the elasticity of the skin, noticeably smoothing it, supporting the reduction of scars, and can complement exfoliating treatments.
The impact of the sauna on mood and the nervous system
The sauna has a fantastic effect not only on the human body but also on the spirit. During the treatment, endorphins, known as happiness hormones, are produced, making the sessions an excellent way to relax and unwind. Therefore, people struggling with stress, tension, or fatigue, and even anxiety, will certainly appreciate the benefits of using the sauna.
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Researchers have also proven the relationship between sauna treatments and the process of producing proteins responsible for protecting and producing new brain cells. Moreover, these substances support the proper functioning of neurons, which in turn favors memory improvement, better concentration, and the ability to assimilate new information.
Is the sauna healthy? Benefits of using a sauna
To summarize how the sauna affects the body, it would be necessary to indicate primarily such advantages as:
- strengthening the immune system,
- support for digestive processes,
- increased metabolism intensity,
- cleansing the body of toxins,
- better blood circulation and improvement of internal organs' work,
- reduction of psychological tension,
- stress and fatigue reduction,
- improvement of the condition of the skin of the body and face.
However, it is important to be aware that there are specific contraindications to using treatments. Women who are pregnant or menstruating should not use the beneficial properties of the sauna. Those suffering from circulatory system diseases, hormonal disorders, eye diseases, mental illnesses, epilepsy, and claustrophobia should also refrain from sessions.
Enjoy the benefits of the sauna at Hotel Belmonte!
A weekend or longer active holiday in the mountains is a perfect moment to enjoy the benefits of being in a sauna. Our saunas are the ideal place for relaxation, regeneration, and at the same time taking care of beauty. Our guests have access to not only the Finnish or steam sauna but also salt, herbal, family saunas, and the ice grotto. This allows everyone to choose the type of sauna that best suits them.
Also, take advantage of the other amenities offered by the Belmonte Hotel - a modern gym, a wonderful pool, and SPA & Wellness for children. Also, check out the SPA treatments offered by our qualified staff.
