Sauna bathing is an activity used for pleasure, well-being and relaxation. Emerging evidence suggests that sauna bathing may be linked to several health benefits. A new report found that sauna bathing is associated with a reduction in the risk of vascular diseases, such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, neurocognitive disorders, non-vascular disorders, such as lung disease, mental disorders and death. In addition, sauna baths soothe ailments such as skin diseases, arthritis, headaches and the flu. The evidence also suggests that regular sauna baths are associated with a better health-related quality of life.
The research team conducted an extensive literature search on the effects of Finnish sauna baths on health outcomes. Bathing in the Finnish sauna is characterized by exposure to a high ambient temperature (80 degrees C – 100 degrees C) for a short period of time.
Findings from this comprehensive literature review also suggest that the health benefits of sauna baths are related to the sauna's effects on circulatory, respiratory, cardiovascular, and immune functions. Regular sauna baths stabilize the autonomic nervous system, lower blood pressure, inflammation, oxidative stress, circulation of bad cholesterol, arterial stiffness and vascular resistance. In addition, sauna bathing contributes to beneficial levels of circulating hormones and other cardiovascular markers. The physiological responses produced by an ordinary sauna bath are similar to those of moderate or high-intensity physical activity such as walking.
Previously, the same research team published several experimental studies demonstrating the beneficial effects of sauna baths on health. This review emphasized that sauna bathing has a good safety profile and can even be used in patients with stable cardiovascular disease. Hot Finnish sauna baths have been shown to be hemodynamically well tolerated without the occurrence of complex ventricular arrhythmias in patients with heart disease.
