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Today, steam and sauna facilities are an integral part of the hydrotherapeutic offerings at
European and American spas, and steam rooms and saunas are a common feature of health clubs
and public pool. Yet, there is surprisingly little awareness of the wide-ranging benefits of
steam and sauna bathing. There is evidence that these sweat-inducing treatments stimulate the
immune system, improve circulation, and help the body to purge itself of impurities. In the
hydrotherapeutic tradition used at European and American spas, sweat therapy is used in preparation
for massage as a means of increasing the suppleness of the muscles and creating a deep sense of
relaxation in body and mind. In the Ayurvedic tradition of India, which has gained popularity in
the U. S. in recent years, steam treatments are part of the traditional purificatory treatment
panchakarma, where they are used after massage to help the body get rid of toxins dislodged
during the treatment.
In Finland, research is being done on the use of sweat therapy in the treatment of people who
are chemically affected. The purifying effects of perspiration could also be behind claims that
steam and sauna treatments can help cure or control such ailments as acne and arthritis. Steam
and sauna bathing produces powerful therapeutic effects simply by increasing circulation. As the
carrier of the rebuilding forces of the nutrients to all parts of the body, the bloodstream plays
a crucial role in the maintenance of health. Steam and sauna treatments have a stimulating effect
on the cardiovascular system. The pulse rate increases from 75 beats per minute to between 100-150
beats per minute during a 15-20 minute treatment. This increases blood circulation, but not blood
pressure, since the heat also causes the tiny blood vessels in the skin to expand, accommodating
the increased blood flow. The dilation of the capillary vessels enables the bloodstream to carry
great amounts of nutrients to the skin, enhancing the nutritive status of the skin. The flushed,
youthful look that steam and sauna bathers maintain for up to several hours after treatment is
due to this effect.
Benefits of a sauna are:
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Relaxes tired, aching muscles |
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Improves circulation |
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Deep cleanses your skin |
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Relieves stress and tension |
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Flushes impurities from the body |
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Induces a deeper and more relaxing sleep |
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Economical to use |
As the old Finnish saying goes: "If the sauna can't cure it, nothing will!"
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