Watching Succession, season 4 got us thinking about the history of sauna and its  cultural importance.   Of course, while the breathtaking and stunning mountaintop backdrop for a lesson in artful negotiation also inspired it was really Sauna Hype guy's enthusiasm that stuck with us.   Long winters here in the Cascades are a key motivator for adding heat and steam therapy as a part of our fitness regimen at The Botanyst - with slow aging potential to boost its appeal.

The use of saunas dates back thousands of years and has been a part of many cultures throughout history.  The origins of the dry sauna can be traced back to Finland, where it has been an integral part of Finnish culture for centuries.

In Finland "sauna" comes from the Finnish word for bath. The Finnish sauna tradition involves using a wood-burning stove to heat rocks, which are then used to generate steam in the sauna room. The humidity levels in the Finnish sauna are typically around 10-20%.  To put this into context most sauanas we use  today are around 5% humidity.

The Finnish people believe that saunas are not only beneficial for physical health, but also for spiritual and social reasons. Saunas are seen as a place to cleanse the body and mind, and they are often used for relaxation and socializing with friends and family.

From reducing stress to improving cardiovascular health, saunas can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. However, it is important to sauna the right way to ensure that you reap the full benefits while minimizing any potential risks. 

THE SLOW AGING BENEFITS OF SAUNA

Promotes relaxation and stress relief:  

Chronic stress can contribute to premature aging and a variety of health issues. Saunas can be a great way to unwind and de-stress. The heat from the sauna can help relax your muscles and stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers and mood boosters. To maximize the relaxation benefits, take a cool shower before entering the sauna and bring a towel to sit on to prevent burns.

Detoxifies the body:

Saunas can also help detoxify the body by promoting sweating. Sweating is one of the body's natural ways of eliminating toxins and can help improve skin health and circulation. Sweating out the impurities that can contribute to cellular damage and accelerate the aging process is an anti-aging action for the body. To help with detoxification, drink plenty of water before and after the sauna to stay hydrated.

Reduces inflammation and pain:

Saunas have been shown to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, making them a popular therapy for people with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back pain. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before using saunas as a therapy for a specific condition.  Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of age-related health issues, including cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease. Saunas anti-inflammatory effects help to reduce inflammation in the body and potentially slowing down the aging process.

Improves cardiovascular health:

Saunas can also improve cardiovascular health by increasing blood flow and reducing blood pressure. The heat from the sauna can help dilate blood vessels, which can improve circulation and decrease the risk of heart disease. This increased circulation can help to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the body's cells, promoting overall health and helping to slow down the aging process.

Boosts the immune system:

Saunas have been shown to boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. This can help the body fight off infections and illnesses more effectively.

Increased production of growth hormone:

Sauna sessions have been shown to increase the production of growth hormone, which plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin, muscles, and bones. Growth hormone levels naturally decline with age, so increasing production through sauna sessions may help slow down the aging process.

To sauna the right way.

Start slowly and gradually increase your time in the sauna. Begin with 5-10 minute sessions and work your way up to 20-30 minutes. It is also important to listen to your body and stop if you feel uncomfortable or lightheaded. Drink plenty of water before and after the sauna to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and drugs before and after sauna sessions.  (Although traditionally a light beer or vodka with lemon might have been served during/or before a sauna session.)

Dry sauna can have numerous medical benefits, from promoting relaxation and stress relief to improving cardiovascular health and boosting the immune system. Keep in mind how to sauna the right way to ensure that you reap the full benefits while minimizing any potential risks. With the right approach, dry sauna can be a a great tool to support your overall health and well-being.  Just ask Joe Rogan.