We all have heard of sauna as a great way to relax besides giving the body a chance to detoxify itself. Sauna is included in various routines of health clubs, gymnasiums, etc. The effects of sauna are not only skin deep but also deep reaching as it affects all the organs of our bodies.
The sweat bath of sauna sets up a series of reactions that has a positive effect on the entire body as well as all the inner organs. It starts with the dilation of the capillaries, which leads to increased supply of blood to the skin in order to draw heat and disperse it deep inside the body. Due to this action, the heart rate increases to meet the demand of additional flow of blood and the various organs like stomach, liver, kidneys, muscles, brain, etc tend to flush out the impurities. As the pores of the skin open up by sauna, toxins get flushed out along with the sweat.
A Perfect Exercise For Your Heart
Due to this rapid flow of blood in the entire body during sauna, the heart is forced to pump blood at a higher rate causing a strain that is good for the heart. Many researchers claim that the increased volume of flow of blood during sauna keeps the blood pressure within normal limits while the others opine that the effect is merely transient in nature. There may be different of views on the lasting effect of sauna on blood pressure and heartbeat, but no one can deny that the overall effect of sauna is good.
Effect of Temperature Rise
During a sauna session of 15 to 20 minutes, the temperature on the surface of skin rises up to 10° C, and the rise in the inner temperature is generally up to 3° C. This acts as a catalyst starting a chain reaction, which leads to detoxify the body. The action is somewhat akin to “fever” in which most bacteria and virus cannot survive. This helps to not only rid the body from harmful bacteria but also give a chance to the cells to repair them.
The raised temperature during sauna also affects pituitary gland, among others, which leads to a better control of metabolic rate that has a direct effect on the various glands of the body like adrenal, thyroid, ovaries and testes. All this leads to better health and a sense of well-being.
A rise in the inner temperature also leads to stimulating the functions of various glands that secrete hormones. It is also noticed that due to improved functioning of ovaries and testes there is a marked increase in sex drive after the sauna bath!
Effect On The Lungs
Because of the effect of sauna on various organs, the demand for oxygen in the body increases by as much as 20 %, putting additional pressure on the lungs, which in turn meet it by quickening their pace. Due to higher temperature, the clogged respiratory passages are opened, giving relief from various minor respiratory problems like colds. However, sauna is not recommended for anyone suffering from pneumonia or any other acute respiratory disease.
Important Advice
Sauna should be taken under expert guidance only, and should be discontinued the moment there is any feeling of discomfort. This is not intended as medical advice and you should consult your physician if you have any questions.