STEAMIN' UP

Did you know that a sauna, in addition to relaxing you, has numerous health benefits as well? So get ready to steam up!

When were saunas first used?

The sauna tradition was started by the Finns (from Finland) almost 2,000 years ago. In fact, the Finns attribute their longevity to the tradition of the sauna.

What is a sauna?

The sauna is essentially a wooden room heated to a temperature of 160 - 190�F using stones, ensuring a natural environment. The heat opens the skin's pores and flushes out the body's impurities and toxins through perspiration. It is a relaxing and fun way to keep your muscles supple, and your body cleansed.

Advantages of a sauna

• It cleanses your body through perspiration and eliminates dead skin, stale body oil and sebum from the system.
• Helps improve circulation. As the body temperature rises, blood vessels dilate and the blood circulation increases.
• As resistance to blood flow drops, blood pressure drops and the heartbeat increases to keep the blood pressure normal, thus strengthening the cardiovascular system.
• Clears the complexion and deep cleanses the skin.
• Eases joint pain.
• Relaxes muscles.
• Reduces stiffness and increases the body's flexibility.
• Helps control weight to a smaller extent by burning calories.
• Reduces stress and relaxes the mind, body and soul.
  

When should you sauna?

You could use a sauna at any time, in any weather. Use it if you are tired and need to relax, de-stress or simply to pamper yourself. If you work out, the ideal way to end your exercise session is by relaxing in the sauna. It helps muscles recover from strain, thus reducing the next-day soreness you feel after a strenuous workout. This is why you'll see that most saunas are attached to a gymnasium.

How should you use a sauna?

• Take a shower and enter the sauna.
• Sprinkle a few drops of water on the stone to increase the humidity slightly and help you adjust to the heat.
• Start at the lower bench for about 3 minutes, so that your body adjusts to the heat. After that, move on to a higher bench.
• Lie down on your back for maximum relaxation.
• It is preferable to place a towel on the bench before sitting or lying down, for hygienic reasons.
• Leave the sauna room after 10 to 15 minutes and have a shower. Once your body cools down to its normal temperature, enter the sauna room again. Repeat this cycle thrice. But don't stay longer than you feel comfortable. You could start out by staying in for a few minutes, and gradually increase the duration. The moment you feel uncomfortable, experience dizziness or a general feeling of ill health, leave the sauna.
• Finish off with a cold shower and gradually increase the heat till the water warms up.
• Get dressed once your body has cooled down to its normal temperature.
  

Remember!

• The weight loss that occurs while taking a sauna is only water weight. Make sure you drink up after a sauna session to avoid dehydration.
• People with heart ailments, respiratory problems and older people should first check with their doctor before using a sauna.
• Don't eat food or drink alcohol prior to a sauna session.

True, a sauna has great benefits, but unfortunately alone is not going to get your body into top physical condition. Combine it with some regular exercise like jogging or walking.