Stress, tension, anxiety - these happen to us every day. In a Stress in America survey, many Americans have reported high levels of stress, and the number of people affected by stress has significantly increased in the past year.
While normal stress, in terms of how it allows the body to endure, is somewhat beneficial, chronic stress is not, as it can increase one’s cortisol hormones. In large amounts, this naturally occurring chemical may lead to weight gain, osteoporosis, digestive problems, heart disease, and diabetes, amongst others. In fact, it plays a huge role in the development of chronic anxiety and depression. Stress reduction, therefore, is crucial in protecting your physical and mental health. One of the most effective ways to relieve stress is through regular sauna sessions.
Sauna and Stress Relief
The use of the sauna for healing and relaxation can be traced as far back as the Roman empire, in the form of the Roman baths. From there, the sauna evolved into the traditional hot and dry models that we are used to seeing. However, the latest incarnation of the sauna comes in the form of the infrared unit, which utilizes advanced technology to provide the same relaxing benefits, and more.
How does a session in the infrared sauna help relieve stress? Here are 5 infrared sauna benefits as they relate to mental health:
Improves Your Mood
Feeling a little blue lately? Research shows that regular use of the infrared sauna can make you feel euphoric. In fact, infrared units can help people who struggle with depression. Several studies confirm that infrared sauna treatments help mildly depressed people reduce their symptoms and mental complaints . As you sweat inside an infrared sauna, your mental satisfaction and energy increases as well.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
A regular sauna session can help lower the level of cortisol in the body, allowing you to release the stress and tension you feel after a long day's work. Moreover, sweating, the main effect of the infrared sauna, helps reduce feelings of frustration and anxiety.
Relieves Pain
Pain can bring discomfort, and may even lead to depression. Did you know, however, that a sauna session can help release endorphins? Endorphins are neurotransmitters that are released in response to pain, emotional stress, and exercise. Studies have shown that heat exposure can help stimulate endorphins, relieving the body of pain and increasing the feeling of happiness.
Boosts Brain Function
Feeling distracted? Regain your focus by relaxing in an infrared sauna. Aside from releasing endorphins, an infrared sauna session may increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Norepinephrine is a stress hormone that helps increase focus and attention. Additionally, a good amount of heat can influence the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which protects, repairs, and increases the growth of brain cells. A good amount of BDNF in the brain can relieve stress and prevent mental illnesses.
Relieves Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complex illness characterized by an extreme feeling of fatigue, which won't go away with rest. Unfortunately, this is a debilitating illness that affects almost 4 million people in the United States alone. While there are no treatments for this disorder, certain lifestyle modifications are recommended to help reduce fatigue. Studies have shown that infrared saunas can greatly benefit individuals suffering from CFS by mitigating symptoms such as pain and insomnia. Whether you are feeling tired or suffering from chronic fatigue, regular use of the infrared sauna may help.
Fortunately, you can enjoy the infrared sauna and its many benefits in the comforts of your own home. No matter the size of the sauna you choose, you’ll find that regular use relaxes your body and relieves stress. Consider talking to infrared sauna experts, such as JNH Lifestyles, to learn more about its many other benefits.
Sources:
13 Proven Ways Saunas Can Improve Your Mental Health,
OptimalLivingDynamics.Com
Are Saunas Good For Your Brain?
Articles.Mercola.Com
