How Sauna Usage Can Affect Longevity

Did you know that regular sauna usage can extend your life? 

Over the last few years, studies have emerged, revealing the benefits of saunas. These studies suggest that the risk of mental and physical health issues, from stress to cardiovascular diseases, can be reduced with long term sauna use.

Enjoying a spa day with an outdoor or barrel sauna (heats up more quickly), somewhere like Redwood Outdoors, maybe a rare treat, but regular sessions could be just what you need.

Regular Relaxation

Exposing your body to the warmth of an indoor or outdoor sauna is relaxing. It's the perfect way to unwind after a tough week, as a romantic getaway or an individual treat.

Relaxing and unwinding are, of course, essential to bodily health. The more relaxed you feel, the less you'll worry, and the less impact this will have on your body.

Stress can contribute to several different illnesses. It is a leading trigger for mental struggles but can also have an impact on the physical body. Allowing the body to sweat out toxins will naturally contribute to your overall health. 

A Healthy Heart

Emerging studies have mainly focused on the impact of sauna usage on men's health. The studies have revealed that heart problems can be decreased by quite a large percentage with long term sauna use. 

They lower the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems, the higher the chances of living a long life. While studies aren't yet widespread, it's clear that saunas cause more benefits than harm.

Brain Benefits

In many ways, using a sauna has a similar effect to exercise. The heat of the sauna room causes the body to sweat and release toxins and endorphins.

In the same way, relaxing in a sauna can improve cognitive function. Heat exposure, as during exercise, has been proven to stimulate the production of brain cells as well as enhancing mood, particularly in patients with long-term illnesses.

Increased Insulin Sensitivity

Some cases have shown that insulin sensitivity can also be increased by heat exposure. This can positively affect diabetic patients and help reduce the risk of people getting diabetes in the first place.

The process supposedly works but lowering fasting blood sugar in the body. While sauna bathing can't cure or promise to prevent diabetes, it may be a valuable addition to maintaining a healthy body. 

Recovery Rate

Sauna usage can mildly increase testosterone levels in the body and in turn, decrease cortisol levels. These hormones help to keep the body healthy and are also a good way to discern recovery from exercise.

Some studies suggest that using a sauna after a workout can help the body to recover faster. The slight rise in testosterone and lowered cortisol may be performance-enhancing which is all part of this process.

The better your body is at recovery, the healthier your body will be. This may then have an impact on how you feel and on your overall longevity. 

The Bottom Line

If you're struggling with stress or have an underlying health issue, indoor, outdoor, or barrel sauna sessions may be for you. There is certainly no harm in trying regular sauna days as these will be sure to benefit your mind or body somehow.

If you'd like to find out more about our spa options and prices, don't hesitate to get in touch. Our team is happy to tell you about sauna health regimes and what we can offer. Call us today!