# More than an ancient pharmacy

- Link: https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/more-than-an-ancient-pharmacy/
- Published: 2023-03-02T04:27:35-05:00
- Author: Sauna Specialist

### – sauna’s health benefits science backed

The sauna’s warm, cozy atmosphere is universally appreciated, which is why so many
of us can’t do without it. **However,** is sweating in a confined, intensely heated
space really beneficial for our health? **In fact,** could medical practitioners
one day prescribe heat therapy as a legitimate treatment? **According to recent 
studies,** the answer might be yes. **Nevertheless,** long before scientific research
began uncovering the sauna’s potential in combating illnesses, people were **already**
instinctively turning to it for self-healing.

The use of sauna for wellness has an almost mystical history, particularly in Nordic
countries. From the Bronze Age to the mid-20^(th) century, the sauna served as a
sacred space for life’s most profound moments: a place for childbirth, farewells
to the deceased, and countless rituals in between. The reason for this is the role
of hygiene – poor sanity conditions were historically the main cause of illness 
and death. As the driest, warmest and cleanest available, saunas have become vital
to health and well-being.

In Sweden, 10,000 saunas were rebuilt between 1920 and 1949, revolutionizing health,
hygiene and general well-being throughout the country. This period marked a turning
point in Sweden’s development into one of the world’s most prosperous democracies.
Meanwhile, Finland, with one sauna for every two people, has consistently ranked
as the happiest country in the world for several years.

It’s hard to dismiss the connection between saunas and well-being. Northern cultures
have long understood this intuitively, referring to the sauna as the “ancient pharmacy”.
Anyone who has stood in the open air with steam rising from their shoulders knows
the feeling – the profound bliss that follows an intense sauna session. When something
feels good, it usually is good for you.

## The science of sauna

But what exactly happens inside our bodies during those steamy moments? Studies 
confirm that frequent sauna bathing offers numerous health benefits – not just for
the body but also for the mind. The spiritual beliefs of the past are now being 
validated and enriched by scientific evidence. Research teams led by cardiologist
Jari Laukkanen have found that regular sauna use is linked to a reduced risk of 
cardiovascular diseases and overall mortality ([source](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25705824/)).

Using sauna more 3 times a week can reduce the risk even up to 65 %.

2 to 3 times a week in sauna reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by more
than 20 % when compared to people who use the sauna once a week.

In addition to reducing cardiovascular risk, sauna bathing has been shown to benefit
people with conditions such as dementia, hypertension, pulmonary diseases, strokes,
and various mental health challenges. However, much of sauna’s health potential 
stems from its holistic effects on the body and mind.

Studies reveal that sauna use improves sleep quality, helping us rest more deeply.
Socially, the sauna’s unique environment fosters authentic connections. Sharing 
the space in mutual vulnerability – free from the distractions of modern life – 
enables deeper interactions, even among strangers. In today’s world of relentless
digital stimulation, the offline serenity of the sauna offers a powerful antidote
to stress, promoting a relaxed state of mind that could add years to our lives. 
Whether you prefer electric, woodburning or infrared saunas, the health benefits
are undeniable.

## Key health benefits of increased sauna bathing

![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pharmacy.webp)

 * Reduced risk of various illnesses, including coronary heart disease, hypertension,
   venous thrombosis, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, dementia,
   and Alzheimer’s disease.
 * Improved blood circulation and boosted immunity.
 * Relief from muscle pain and tension.
 * Effective stress relief.
 * Enhanced sleep quality.
 * Physical and mental relaxation.
 * Increased social connection.
 * A tranquil, offline environment to escape distractions.