Since Ive heard about so many positive experiences from sauna users, I wanted to try one myself.
I also noticed my usual recovery regimen wasn’t as necessary.
During my two weeks of sauna use, I didnt find myself needing any of those tools.
Photo Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
“Relaxation causes a lot of relief to muscle soreness.
I left each session feeling warmed from the inside out, and my skin felt full and plump.
I noticed that some acne on my faceparticularly around my temples and foreheadhad lightly cleared.
Larger breakouts on my chin shrank in size.
Those feelings continued even after I left the sauna.
Theres a reason why people feel relaxed and calm after using a sauna, Mikhael said.
Its because as the body and muscles loosen up,heart rate and blood pressure go down.
Because it can worsen dehydration, avoid drinking alcohol in the hours immediately after using a sauna.
However, a single session should be no longer than 15 to 20 minutes.
Whether or not you use a sauna before orafter your workoutdepends on your personal preference.
Regardless, it’s important to be well-hydrated, Mikhael said.
Blood pressure fluctuations are possible, too.
This can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, and nausea.
How Hot Should a Sauna Be?
The sauna at my gym was set between 155 to 165 degrees each time I used it.
What Are the Different Types of Saunas?
The most common types of saunas include:
Sauna vs. Saunas use dry heat and high temperatures, whereas steam baths use moist heat and lower temperatures.
Are Saunas Good For You?
While sauna bathing is generally considered safe for most people, potential risks may include dehydration and overheating.
Saunas are not recommended for those with certain health conditions or who are taking certain medications.
Persons who are pregnant or have a cardiovascular health problem should consult with a healthcare provider before sauna use.
Harvard Health Publishing.Sauna health benefits: Are saunas healthy or harmful?
The North American Sauna Society.Sauna types.
Hussain J, Cohen M.Clinical effects of regular dry sauna bathing: a systematic review.
Cooley K, ed.Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
2018;2018(1):1857413. doi:10.1155/2018/1857413
SIU School of Medicine.5 surprising health benefits of sauna use.
