Thermotherapy -The evolution of the Sauna span culture

Thermotherapy is not a new concept. The evolution of the Sauna span culture and history, from Finnish style to the Turkish Hammam and a Russian Banya, the Sauna has stayed in its traditional form and adapted with newer technology like infrared.

So why do we use saunas? Why do we subject ourselves to sitting in a confined room heated to 60 degrees?  The Sauna has been used to support detoxification, increased blood circulation, pain reduction, skin rejuvenation, relaxation and reduce systemic inflammatory status among many other uses. Although medical research and clinical trial evidence is limited, systemic reviews suggest improved self-assessed quality of life results.

On a cellular level, thermotherapy induces a production of heat shock proteins, a reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduction of oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways and increased nitric oxide bioavailability. While using a sauna is not a replacement for exercise, it is suggested the mechanisms are similar.  

In our world of wellness and beauty, seldom is there a modern spa or bath house without at least two different kinds of spaces to sweat, relax and unwind. A dear customer of ours told us she uses the Active Enzyme Exfoliator while sitting in the sauna at Sense of Self. Inspired, innovative and right up our alley.

Our dream Sauna routine:  Dry brushing before activates the lymphatic system. 40 minutes in an infrared sauna while hydrating with electrolyte and hyaluronic acid rich Hydration boost by The Beauty Chef. A cold plunge. Lathering our body in antioxidant rich products: Agent Nateur Ageless Body Balm, Josh Rosebrook C body cream, Undaria Body oil, Nature of Things Nourishing Body Cream, Kjer Weis Body oil. Exfoliation, stimulation of the lymphatic system and replenishing our barrier can support cellular rejuvenation and glowing skin.  

Adverse side effects from using a sauna can include mild heat discomfort, claustrophobia, symptoms of low blood pressure and inadequate hydration. Furthermore, it should be noted that Sauna’s impact spermatogenesis (Sperm production and function) – this includes motility mitochondrial function. Although findings are significant, implications are reversible. Be sure to speak to your primary health care practitioner if you have a diagnosed condition, are pregnant or are trying to be, or are unsure if a Sauna is right for you. 

For more information on our best selling natural body care products, check out our Body care collection Or, if you’re looking for more tailored advice, contact our qualified team at The Lab Organics at our Melbourne skincare & lifestyle store

Our instore team has years of  organic skincare & holistic care experience, we’ll tailor a session to your exact needs, from a quick product question to a full skincare consultation. Our qualified team is here to help 

References

Hussain, J., & Cohen, M. (2018). Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2018, 1857413. Wiley.onlinelibrary

Garolla, A., Torino, M., Sartini, B., Cosci, I., Patassini, C., Carraro, U., & Foresta, C. (2013). Seminal and molecular evidence that sauna exposure affects human spermatogenesis. Human reproduction (Oxford, England), 28(4), 877–885. Oxford Academic

Avci, P., Gupta, A., Sadasivam, M., Vecchio, D., Pam, Z., Pam, N., & Hamblin, M. R. (2013). Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring. Seminars in cutaneous medicine and surgery, 32(1), 41–52.