5 Secrets To Sauna Success
Tahnee Streatfeild
For many, the idea of unwinding in a warm, soothing environment is highly appealing. But do you know how to get the most out of your infrared sauna sessions?
This quick guide will help to improve your sessions, and make your experience more enjoyable and beneficial.
Whether you use a infrared sauna blanket, dome or traditional sauna these five tips will help you make the most of your journey.
1. Dry Brushing Before
Dry brushing involves using a coarse-bristled brush to gently exfoliate the skin.
The idea is that the coarse fibers will help to remove dead skin and promote circulation.
By removing dead skin cells, your skin becomes more equipped to eliminate toxins during a sauna session.
Sweating opens the pores, so dry brushing ensures they are clear, boosting your body's natural cleansing processes. It also leaves your skin feeling renewed.
2. Drink Plenty Of Water Before, During And After
Since you lose a significant amount of fluids throughout your sauna session, you need to be sure to replenish.
The best way to do this is to drink water before, during and after your session. Our bodies don't signal thirst right away so it is best to hydrate before you reach that point. This will allow you to avoid dehydration.
In addition, it’s important to not drink anything that will de-hydrate you such as caffeine or alcohol. Experts recommend that you avoid these types of drinks for an hour or more before stepping into your sauna.
Another factor to note is that although sauna bathing helps to support purification it also leads to a loss of essential electrolytes, such as magnesium and potassium.
Water alone won’t restore electrolytes. To help, add drinks rich in electrolytes, like coconut water or electrolyte powders. You can also eat mineral-rich foods, such as leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, to maintain balance.
3. Have Breaks When You Need
If you’ve never used a sauna before, it's recommended you start small. Beginners may want to start with around 5-10 minutes at a time and build up to longer sessions.
While some experienced sauna users may look to a longer session. The longer you stay in the sauna the more you risk dehydration.
The general rule is around 15-30 minute sessions.
Ultimately, it's all about listening to your body. It's not about how long, it's about how you feel.
4. Cold Shower After
After your session, it's beneficial to take a cold shower to enhance the effects. The traditional Finnish approach involves swimming in a hole cut in the ice.
When you leave the warmth of a sauna for a cold place, your body reacts. It triggers a natural 'fight-or-flight' response. This response causes blood vessels near your skin to tighten.
While the infrared heat helps increase your heart rate and improve blood flow, the cold triggers the opposite effect.
This sudden shift in temperature can help promote improved circulation, ease muscle aches and potentially boost your immune system. The two combined is like giving your body a full body reset that can help support your recovery and boost performance.
5. Consistent Use
To truly maximize the benefits of sauna therapy, consistency is key.
Preliminary studies show that people experience the best sauna health effects by using a sauna 4-7 times a week.
Like any great habit, the more you do it the better your body responds. Consistent use ensures you continue to reap the rewards of purifying your body.
Conclusion
Saunas can be deeply relaxing and a beneficial experience whether in an Infrared Sauna Blanket or traditional sauna.
The important thing to remember is everyone's sauna sessions and routine will look different. It all comes down to personal preference and what works best for you.
These tips will help you get the most out of your sessions and ensure you have a safe and successful sauna at home.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Individual experiences may vary.