More than an ancient pharmacy
– sauna's health benefits science backed
The sauna’s warm, cozy atmosphere is universally appreciated, which is why so many of us can’t do without it. However, is sweating in a confined, intensely heated space really beneficial for our health? In fact, could medical practitioners one day prescribe heat therapy as a legitimate treatment? According to recent studies, the answer might be yes. Nevertheless, long before scientific research began uncovering the sauna’s potential in combating illnesses, people were already instinctively turning to it for self-healing.
The use of sauna for wellness has an almost mystical history, particularly in Nordic countries. From the Bronze Age to the mid-20th century, the sauna served as a sacred space for life’s most profound moments: a place for childbirth, farewells to the deceased, and countless rituals in between. The reason for this is the role of hygiene – poor sanity conditions were historically the main cause of illness and death. As the driest, warmest and cleanest available, saunas have become vital to health and well-being.
In Sweden, 10,000 saunas were rebuilt between 1920 and 1949, revolutionizing health, hygiene and general well-being throughout the country. This period marked a turning point in Sweden’s development into one of the world’s most prosperous democracies. Meanwhile, Finland, with one sauna for every two people, has consistently ranked as the happiest country in the world for several years.
It’s hard to dismiss the connection between saunas and well-being. Northern cultures have long understood this intuitively, referring to the sauna as the “ancient pharmacy”. Anyone who has stood in the open air with steam rising from their shoulders knows the feeling – the profound bliss that follows an intense sauna session. When something feels good, it usually is good for you.
The science of sauna
But what exactly happens inside our bodies during those steamy moments? Studies confirm that frequent sauna bathing offers numerous health benefits – not just for the body but also for the mind. The spiritual beliefs of the past are now being validated and enriched by scientific evidence. Research teams led by cardiologist Jari Laukkanen have found that regular sauna use is linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and overall mortality (source).
65 %
Using sauna more 3 times a week can reduce the risk even up to 65 %.
20 %
2 to 3 times a week in sauna reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by more than 20 % when compared to people who use the sauna once a week.
In addition to reducing cardiovascular risk, sauna bathing has been shown to benefit people with conditions such as dementia, hypertension, pulmonary diseases, strokes, and various mental health challenges. However, much of sauna’s health potential stems from its holistic effects on the body and mind.
Studies reveal that sauna use improves sleep quality, helping us rest more deeply. Socially, the sauna’s unique environment fosters authentic connections. Sharing the space in mutual vulnerability – free from the distractions of modern life – enables deeper interactions, even among strangers. In today’s world of relentless digital stimulation, the offline serenity of the sauna offers a powerful antidote to stress, promoting a relaxed state of mind that could add years to our lives. Whether you prefer electric, woodburning or infrared saunas, the health benefits are undeniable.
Key health benefits of increased sauna bathing
- Reduced risk of various illnesses, including coronary heart disease, hypertension, venous thrombosis, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Improved blood circulation and boosted immunity.
- Relief from muscle pain and tension.
- Effective stress relief.
- Enhanced sleep quality.
- Physical and mental relaxation.
- Increased social connection.
- A tranquil, offline environment to escape distractions.
ORIGINAL SOURCE: https://www.harvia.com/en/ideas-and-trends/healing-with-heat/more-than-an-ancient-pharmacy-sauna-s-health-benefits-science-backed/
Have more questions? Feel free to contact us and our experts will be glad to help you!
