You might be interested
Saunas have been around for thousands of years. Are they truly therapeutic or just a wellness trend?
Evolving from ancient smoke-filled pits to high-tech wellness hubs, saunas are said to offer physical and mental health benefits.
The concept of heat bathing originated in Northern Europe as far back as 7000 BC.
The first saunas were large pits dug into the ground, with a pile of stones at the bottom heated by fire. Water was thrown onto the hot stones, creating steam, and the pit was covered to contain the heat.
In ancient times, saunas were a sacred place of health and wellbeing.
Caption: Bain Finlandais (Finnish Bath)
Credit: Illustration by Acerbi Giuseppe in 1804 – CC 4.0
Regular smoke exposure meant naturally antibacterial soot lined the sauna walls, creating a sterile environment.
These warm rooms provided refuge from the cold and unforgiving northern hemisphere landscape. They were used as hospitals, kitchens, bathrooms, birthing suites and death beds.
During harsh winters, saunas were crucial for survival.
HEATING UP
The word ‘sauna’ comes from the ancient Finnish word ‘savu’, meaning ‘smoke’.
Electric saunas were invented in Finland in 1938.
Their electrification made saunas far easier to install in urban settings, which made them far more accessible.
Saunas quickly found their way into gyms, hotels and spas across the Western world, sparking the global wellness craze that continues today.
So does science back up the health benefit claims?
THE STEAMY TRUTH
A traditional Finnish-style sauna temperature ranges from 71°C to 93°C. Infrared saunas (like the one at your gym, probably) range from 32°C to 65°C.
This intense heat activates the body’s natural defence mechanisms, triggering the production of heat shock proteins (HSPs).
HSPs play a vital role in keeping proteins in check by folding, stabilising and transporting proteins within a cell.
This process supports muscle regeneration and recovery, which is why many athletes use saunas.
Heat also causes blood vessels to dilate, improving circulation. This helps to remove lactic acid from our muscles, reducing stiffness and tension.
Caption: A modern sauna
Credit: Clay Banks via Unsplash
SWEAT IT OUT
Many studies have investigated the health benefits of sauna bathing.
The Global Sauna Survey found evidence of increased circulation, relaxation, stress release and pain relief. It also found improvements in sleep and mental health.
Other long-term observational studies suggest correlations between sauna use and reduced risk of various serious health conditions.
They include decreased rates of heart attack, stroke, dementia and asthma and improved rates of cardiovascular function.
While more research is required to confirm these initial studies, the results are promising.
Centuries of tradition and current scientific research suggest saunas are good for your mind and body – so why not give it a go?
