The world’s first saunas are believed to have been built in northern Europe around 4,000 years ago. Imagine that: proto-Scandanavians, surrounded by ice and darkness, huddled around hot rocks and steeping in steam. They must have thought they invented the concept of coziness!

We don’t know how much the ancient Finns understood about physical and mental health, but they probably wouldn’t have been shocked to learn that sauna bathing was very good for them. Life in the 21st century may not be perfect, but at least now we know all about the therapeutic benefits of saunas. Here’s why regular visits to the sauna can help you live longer and in better health!

Disclaimer: We are not doctors. We are not qualified to give medical advice. No information provided by Paradise Patio, Pool & Spa is intended to be construed as medical advice. Please consult your primary care provider before using a sauna.

Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

One recent study (which unsurprisingly involved a Finnish scientist) followed 2,300 sauna enthusiasts over the course of two decades. It found that people who sauna bathe four to seven times each week have a significantly reduced risk of death from stroke or heart disease.

There are several reasons why regular sauna bathing can improve your cardiovascular health. High heat causes your heart to beat faster – just like physical exercise would have, minus the active muscle work. Sitting in a sauna also helps to lower blood pressure, decrease arterial stiffness, and increase the arterial compliance (i.e. the artery wall’s ability to distend and increase in volume).

Reduced Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

Remembering to visit the sauna can help to preserve your cognitive function in a very big way. According to a different study (which was exclusively conducted by Finnish scientists), people who sauna bathe nine to 12 times per month have less than half as much risk of dementia as those who sauna bathe four times per month or less.

Relief From Symptoms of Respiratory Disease

Regular sauna bathing has been shown to help relax the muscles in the lungs’ bronchioles, as well as enhance lung function and capacity. It has also been shown to cause improvement of lung function in people who are living with obstructive pulmonary disease, as well as inhibit the symptoms of asthma and chronic bronchitis.

Relief From Chronic Pain

If you’re managing chronic pain, then the sauna can help you live more comfortably. Various studies have shown that sauna bathing can reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and fibromyalgia. Research has also shown that dry sauna therapy can be especially beneficial to those who are living with low back pain.

Better Mental Health

Sauna bathing is directly linked to reduced levels of cortisol: the primary stress hormone, which directly contributes to feelings of anxiety and depression when it is present in high concentrations in the blood stream. (It’s important to note that high cortisol levels are also associated with high blood pressure – yet another reason why regular trips to the sauna can do good for your heart.) Other research suggests that frequent sauna bathing can significantly reduce the risk of psychotic disorders.