The Heat is On: Sauna is Good for your Brain

Sauna bathing is more than mere relaxation. The physical health benefits are numerous – everything from pain recovery and detoxification to improved sleep, skin and cardiovascular health – but the mental health benefits are also astounding.

Heat therapy and hyperthermia, as experienced in a far infrared sauna such as the one we have here at Medical Aesthetics of the Hudson Valley, increase beta endorphin release, relieving pain and causing a greater sense of well-being. Sauna also helps with mental tension because it lowers the stress hormone cortisol. 

A sauna bath can also be a great antidepressant. Studies show that the whole body heating of sauna therapy can boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. A particular study offered one single session of whole body heating to participants with major depressive disorder and found, even after 6 weeks, subjects showed a small but significant improvement in how they assessed their own mental health.  

The benefits of sauna continue to be studied. A 2017 report suggests heat exposure from regular sauna can even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Additionally, research has shown that sauna bathing two to three times per week can lead to a 23% increase in longevity. We love that statistic!

Consider trying our in-house low EMF and far infrared sauna for only $50, or purchase a membership of 8 sessions per month for $360. It’s worth it!