Ahhh.. sauna therapy. In the spring, we finally got a sauna to complete our backyard abode. It’s something we’ve wanted for a long time and is actually a wedding gift from a group of our close friends! (Thanks again guys! 🙋🏻‍♀️)

Many different cultures have used sauna therapy for thousands of years due to its many benefits. These are the reasons I love the sauna:
👉Detoxification via increased circulation and sweating. This is especially helpful for elimination of heavy metals which can accumulate in organs and tissues from the environment, the food and water supply, and usually have a hard time exiting the body
👉Skin – since blood flow is increased to the skin, this can reduce inflammation which can be particularly beneficial for people who suffer from eczema, acne, or psoriasis
👉Cardiovascular benefits – sauna use resembles exercise to the body (increased blood flow, cardiovascular fitness and sweating). Because of this, you also get a sort of post-exercise euphoria with increased endorphins & serotonin (the happiness hormone)
👉Increased brain cell growth, body cell renewal (autophagy) as well as white blood cell production to fight off infection
👉 Stress relief via the regulation of cortisol (the stress hormone), pain relief via the production of opioids (endorphins & enkephalins: the body’s natural pain relievers), and reduced inflammation via the production of heat shock proteins

Sauna-ing is safe for everyday whether it’s in a traditional sauna or infrared sauna. Our traditional sauna therapy routine usually consists of two sets of 15 minute sessions at 70-80 degrees Celsius interspersed with a cool dip in the pool, a dry brushing, and a eucalyptus oil steaming of the rocks.
The cool dip in the pool between sauna sessions is called the ‘Nordic Cycle’. This, along with the dry brushing increases detoxification and waste removal via triggering lymphatic circulation. The eucalyptus oil steam stimulates the immune system, provides antioxidant protection and improves respiratory circulation. If you don’t have access to a sauna, this cycle can be reproduced in the shower!
And then the best part: the deepest, most restorative, coma-esque sleep ever!

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