Relax and get healthier? Say no more!
If you want to stay healthy – or get healthier – but you do not want to do anything too strenuous, then there is one activity you can do to relax you whilst slashing your risk for conditions. Experts note that if you enjoy a sauna and unwinding after a workout, it is good news.
There are some pretty surprising benefits of regular saunas – and if you have a gym membership, it may even be included in what you are already paying for. They are often seen as a luxury for relaxation, but experts now say that regular sauna use is now being acknowledged for its potential to enhance both physical and mental well-being.
1. Reduce your risk
Dr Mohammed Enayat, GP and founder of HUM2N says that it can do wonders for your heart. He explains: “Research, particularly from Finland, where sauna culture is deeply ingrained, suggests that frequent use of saunas (four or more times per week) can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure,
“This is because the heat exposure induces a temporary increase in heart rate, mimicking the effects of moderate exercise. Blood vessels dilate, improving circulation and reducing blood pressure over time.”
Sauna use has also been linked to improved endothelial function, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood vessels, adds the GP.
2. You may have fewer colds
Sauna bathing may reduce the risk of respiratory diseases. Dr Vijay Murthy, co-founder of Harley Street clinic Murthy Health, says: “The rise in body temperature triggers heat shock proteins that protect cells from stress, increases white blood cell production, improving the body’s ability to fight infections, and enhances antimicrobial peptides, which combat bacteria and viruses.”
“Regular sauna users have been found to have fewer colds and respiratory infections [in some studies], likely due to this immune-enhancing effect.”
3. Better skin
Dr Enayat adds that the ‘increased circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to the skin, promoting a healthy, radiant complexion’.
It can also help clear out your pores, meaning it could help any issues you have. He says: “Sweating also helps clear out pores, which can reduce the likelihood of acne and other skin conditions.
“Furthermore, sauna heat stimulates collagen production, which is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
However, Enayat stresses that those with very sensitive or dry skin should ensure they hydrate properly and avoid excessive heat exposure.
4. DOMS
Dr Murthy notes that “the combination of heat, increased blood flow and endorphin release helps reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after exercise, improves joint mobility, and reduces stiffness in arthritis sufferers, and stimulates cellular repair by activating heat shock proteins. This is why athletes frequently use saunas to enhance recovery and prevent injury.”
5. Reduces inflammation
Dr Murthy explains: “Sauna therapy activates anti-inflammatory pathways, reducing chronic inflammation at the cellular level. Heat exposure increases circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues, and induces nitric oxide release which relaxes blood vessels and muscles.
“It also triggers the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, helping manage systemic inflammation. This makes saunas beneficial not only for muscle tension but also for inflammatory conditions, like fibromyalgia and autoimmune arthritis.”
6. Relax and unwind
According to the experts, heat helps to release endorphins. This is the body’s natural feel-good chemicals which helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Dr Enayat explains: “In addition, sauna use lowers cortisol levels and enhances parasympathetic nervous system activity, leading to a state of deep relaxation.
“Many people report improved sleep quality after using a sauna, which further contributes to mental health benefits.”
