The Importance of Cooling Down

For every article about the health benefits of saunas, it seems as if there's one about the alleged health risks of saunas, too. It can be difficult to know which bits you need to remember in order to get the best and safest use from your sauna.

At www.SaunasAndStuff.com, we would like to help simplify the health risks of saunas and give you some facts about the risks:

• Cooling down is just as important as the heating process during your sauna session. Take a few moments after exiting the sauna before taking a plunge in a cold pool or shower. After your session you can turn the sauna off, open the door slightly, and allow your body to cool down for 10 minutes. Shivering afterward is an involuntary response of your body trying to warm itself back up. You may want to re-enter the sauna and allow your body to cool longer afterward. If you ever feel sick after using the sauna, try lowering the temperature and doing a warmer, longer cool down. Sleep disturbances can also occur if your body is not cooled properly, so give yourself sufficient time to cool down after using the sauna.
• Prolonged stays in the sauna can lead to the loss of electrolytes from the body, similar to what happens to your body after rigorous exercise. Heat stroke can occur if you do not hydrate sufficiently. Always drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after using the sauna. Using the sauna during alcohol withdrawal or while hungover can also cause dehydration, so it is not recommended to use the sauna after a night of drinking.
• Ease yourself into regular sauna use slowly to lower any potential risks. Start with short intervals once or twice a week, and work up from there. Always remember: if at any time during your sauna session you feel dizzy, sleepy, or any discomfort, exit the sauna immediately.

Saunas have many health benefits and correct use will help eliminate any risks associated with them. Please submit any additional questions to www.SaunasAndStuff.com to answer. We encourage using saunas safely to maximize the health benefits!