The Benefits of a Sauna or a Steam

Steam Rooms and Saunas

I am a big Steam and Sauna room user and for me they are not just a way to relax or chill out. I find them hugely beneficial in terms of post workout recovery as well as helpful if I am recovering from a winter cold. I’m still working on finding room in the garden to build one!

Here are just a few ways in which Steam or Sauna Rooms are helpful:-

1) Recovery and Tension

The heat relaxes muscles, soothes nerve and joint pain as well as relieves headaches.

2) Removes Toxins and helps clear skin

The heat makes your body sweat which helps relieves the body of waste products as well as improving circulation helping skin look better.

3) Can Increase Flexibility

I find that combined with regular work to stretching muscles, a sauna or steam room means that the heat penetrating muscles helps improve their flexibility.  

4) Increased Muscle Gain

Spending time in a sauna is know to increase muscle gain by increasing protein production, through introduction of heat shock proteins, growth hormone and improved insulin sensitivity.

5) Stress Reduction

The heat helps to release endorphins that reduce the feelings of stress in our bodies. I love to chill out in a sauna when life is very busy.

6) Post-workout Relaxation

This is essential for anyone working out a lot. Simply being in a steam room or sauna is time to relax which aids recovery.

7) Promotes Healthy Blood Flow

The bodies capillaries dilate when they are exposed to the heat of the sauna or steam room which allows blood to flow freely and easily throughout the body, transporting oxygen to all areas of the body which needs it. 

8) Sinus Pain relief

Many people suffer from pain in their Sinuses. The heat from saunas and steam rooms opens and thins the mucus membranes all around your body. If you have a cold this is also a great help as they aid in unblocking sinuses and improving your breathing.