Steam and Infrared Sauna Thermo Detox

Sauna is a centuries-old Swedish method of heating the body by sitting in a small wooden room warmed by hot rocks, electricity or infrared energy. Sometimes water is added to create steam. Scandinavian cultures have traditionally used sauna as a social event for people to relax, talk and enjoy each other's company. Today, use steam and infrared sauna to relax and detox your body.

How Sauna Works

Whether by heated rocks or infrared heat, sitting in a sauna will elevate your core body temperature and induce sweating. Traditionally, participants would sit in the sauna, then take a plunge in a cold-water bath or roll in the snow, then return to the sauna and repeat the process a few times. Modern sauna participants normally sit in the sauna for a period of time, then cool off in a shower or plunge pool without returning for multiple sittings in the heat.

Effects on the Body

Participants of sauna report feeling invigorated and relaxed afterward. Some have found relief from such conditions as chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, as well as chronic pain conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or back pain. Participants report a feeling of general well-being after a sauna session, so it may help people with depression and anxiety.

A sauna will cause you to lose salt and water in the form of sweat. Research is limited about the claims that sauna can reduce toxins in the body or release toxins such as ammonia, metals and acids. However, sweating does cause the body to release minerals, though participants should take care to replace beneficial minerals after sauna.

Sauna does increase circulation in the body, which sauna participants say is not only relaxing but clears the body of unwanted toxins. This is why it is important to drink water before, during and after a session in the sauna.

Overuse of the sauna may cause dehydration, nausea, headache and lethargy. If you feel faint or nauseated or if you have stopped sweating, leave the sauna immediately. Cool off in a shower and drink water or an electrolyte replacement beverage immediately.

Cautions

Avoid taking a sauna if you already are or are trying to become pregnant, if you have high blood pressure or a history of heart problems, or if you have breathing problems. If you are unsure, talk with your doctor about your concerns.