How Long Should You Stay In A Sauna?

If you’ve ever felt the calming relaxation and relief from pain a sauna offers, you already know why they’re becoming increasingly popular. It helps you relax and can speed up recovery after a tough workout. While they’re safe, you still need to take precautions. It heats your body and causes you to sweat. Always check with your healthcare professional first before using a sauna, especially if you have a health issue or take medication. How long to stay in a sauna is determined by several things. One of the most important is how often you’ve used a sauna.

Dehydration is a big issue, and so is overheating.

You can take safety precautions to avoid dehydration and overheating. Checking with your healthcare professional should be your first precautionary step. Always ask about your medications and any problems they may cause. They may make it difficult to cool off by sweating, increase your body temperature, or affect the part of the brain that cools the body. Other precautionary steps include hydrating before and after a sauna and avoiding alcohol before a sauna session. Alcohol increases the risk of dehydration. The time spent in a sauna is also important.

How much time should a first-time user spend in a sauna?

If you’ve never used a sauna or used one recently, spending five to ten minutes should be your goal. Your body isn’t acclimated to the heat. Only spend 5 to 10 minutes in the sauna when you first start. Gradually increase your time and cap it at 15 to 20 minutes. If you’re using a sauna after exercise, cool down first. Wait 10 to 15 minutes before you start your session.

As with exercise, taking it slower at first is best.

Just like exercising, saunas can provide many health benefits. Also, like exercising, you should take it slow at first and work your way up for a longer time. Let your body be your guide. Each person is unique, so everyone reacts to the heat differently. Listen to what your body tells you and respect it. If you feel overheated, you probably are.

• The type of sauna used makes a difference. Infrared saunas penetrate more deeply so you sweat more at lower temperatures. You can stay in the sauna longer.
• You’ll lose weight in a sauna, but it’s primarily water weight. You’ll also burn a few more calories. It won’t replace a healthy diet and regular exercise but will complement them and help muscle recovery.
• Don’t sit and count the minutes in the sauna. Relax and enjoy it. You should feel as rejuvenated as you would with a massage.
• Using a sauna can help you sleep better. It can help clear skin and improve circulation. If you have joint pain or arthritis, sauna use can help. You’ll love how relaxed you are when you leave the sauna.

For more information, contact us today at Thrive Sauna Studio