Sauna benefits are well researched and include everything from arthritis to depression. The high radiant heat temperatures that come from the stove kill bacteria and have been known to increase anti oxidants protecting the body’s cells. Modern infrared sauna stoves are touted to provide the same health benefit for people who live in urban areas. Research has shown that a good hot sauna (pronounced sow na) reduces blood pressure and reduces over all stress. Probably the greatest sauna benefit of a hot sauna come from the deep body cleansing that occurs.
Some of the best sauna benefit comes from a cold wash down that comes from a cold water spicket, shower, swim or roll in the snow. If you have ever had any doubts about sauna benefit just run your sauna up to about 160 degrees enjoying the heat for about 20 minutes. Then open the door and take a roll in the snow. You will be shocked by all the black sweat grime that is left behind. Just make sure you have at least 15 inches of snow so you do not hurt yourself. If you still doubt the sauna benefit take some of this snow slime put it in a glass and take it back into the sauna. After it melts you will see and smell the toxins that were in your body. Studies show that taking a cold water swim (not in a warm pool) increases the growth of white blood cells and benefits your immune system. Many people will make the hot to cold cycle a couple of times to assure that they are totally clean.
The social sauna benefit is frequently overlooked by the urban sauna users. In the Michigan UP and Northern Wisconsin and Minnesota a sauna is a family affair. In many places there are community saunas that are used by friends and family as a social gathering place. In most cases these are separate sex gatherings where people get to together to discuss everything from the local politics to the weather over a beer or two. This is a great cabin fever cure in late winter and may be the best sauna benefit of them all.
No matter where you live you can easily enjoy all the sauna benefit noted. There are many different models of saunas available on the market today with many at a reasonable prices.