The Benefits of Sauna Usage
The Surprising Health Benefits of Sauna Usage: Articles and Podcasts to Dive Into
Saunas are not just about relaxation and sweating out toxins—though those are certainly some of their well-known benefits. Over the years, research has shown that regular sauna use can provide a wide range of physical and mental health benefits, from improving cardiovascular health to boosting mood and enhancing skin appearance. If you're curious about why more people are adding saunas to their wellness routines, or if you're already a sauna enthusiast looking to deepen your knowledge, we’ve gathered some excellent resources for you. Here are three insightful articles and podcasts that explore the many ways saunas can benefit your health.
Articles:
"The Health Benefits of Sauna Use" – Harvard Health Blog (Harvard Medical School)
This article provides an in-depth review of the scientific studies on sauna use, highlighting its cardiovascular benefits, detoxification properties, and impact on stress and mental health. It also covers the potential long-term benefits for longevity and immune function.
Link: Harvard Health Blog
"What Saunas Can Do for Your Health" – Mayo Clinic (Mayo Clinic Health Letter)
A trusted resource that breaks down the specific physical and mental health benefits of saunas. It discusses sauna use in relation to improved circulation, muscle relaxation, stress reduction, and more.
Link: Mayo Clinic
"The Surprising Science of Saunas" – The New York Times (Well Section)
This article provides an overview of the latest research surrounding sauna use, including studies on how it can improve heart health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and contribute to mental well-being. It's an excellent read for those seeking a scientific perspective on the subject.
Link: The New York Times
Podcasts:
"The Science of Sauna" – Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast (Ben Greenfield)
In this episode, fitness and wellness expert Ben Greenfield dives into the science behind sauna usage, including the latest research on detoxification, fat loss, and cardiovascular benefits. He also discusses different types of saunas and how to maximize their health benefits.
Link: Ben Greenfield Fitness
"The Sauna Effect: Unlocking the Science Behind Heat Therapy" – The Dr. Axe Show (Dr. Josh Axe)
Dr. Axe explores the various health benefits of heat therapy, specifically sauna use, and how it supports detoxification, muscle recovery, and immune function. He also shares tips on how to get the most out of sauna sessions.
Link: Dr. Axe Show
"Sauna Benefits and Cold Plunge – A Deep Dive Into Heat Therapy" – The Huberman Lab Podcast (Dr. Andrew Huberman)
Dr. Huberman, a neuroscientist at Stanford University, discusses the neurobiological effects of sauna use and heat exposure on stress, recovery, and overall health. He also compares the benefits of sauna therapy to other forms of heat and cold exposure.
Link: Huberman Lab Podcast
Why Sauna Use is Worth Considering
Saunas are a powerful tool for enhancing overall health and well-being. From improving circulation and muscle recovery to boosting mental clarity and skin health, the benefits are vast and well-supported by research. If you’re new to saunas, or even if you’ve been using them for a while, the articles and podcasts mentioned above will give you a deeper understanding of how they work and why they’ve been valued for centuries.
Whether you're looking to reduce stress, improve your cardiovascular health, or enjoy the calming effects of heat therapy, integrating regular sauna sessions into your lifestyle could provide lasting health benefits. Check out these resources to learn more, and consider adding saunas to your wellness routine!
Dr. Joseph Tumsian, Owner
