Sweating is good for you: why going to the sauna is healthy

The Finns invented it, and we use it with great enthusiasm: more than 25 million Germans go sweating regularly. There are plenty of health reasons to do so - especially now in winter. Read here why going to the sauna is healthy.

Frau im Handtuch in der Sauna© iStock
An infusion with herbs often enhances the effect.

Why the sauna is healthy

The heat gets the circulation going, promotes blood flow to the skin and stimulates the immune cells. To keep the body temperature at 36 degrees in the heat, the blood vessels have to dilate so that they can release heat to the outside, and the skin starts to sweat to generate evaporative cooling.

How to sauna properly

The air temperature is between 70 and 100 degrees. Beginners should therefore sit at the bottom or on the middle bench, as it is hottest at the top. You should also not stay longer than ten minutes - especially at the beginning, inexperienced people often take on too much. Afterwards, take a cold shower. Immersion in the pool is not recommended for beginners as it puts a strain on the heart and circulation. As a rule of thumb, the cool-down phase should last at least as long as the previous sweating phase. You can easily do two to three sauna sessions.

Better not to go to the sauna

If you have an acute infection with a fever, you should avoid going to the sauna, as this only puts additional strain on the body. Patients with vascular diseases, severe varicose veins or high blood pressure should definitely consult their family doctor before going to the sauna.