Let's face it, planning a wedding is stressful. The endless to-do lists, the countless calls with vendors, and other wedding duties can take a toll on your mental and physical well-being, leaving you feeling drab before your big day. And one way to fix that is through sauna therapy. The heat generated in sauna therapy improves blood and oxygen circulation, promoting muscle relaxation, which helps de-stress and revitalise your mind and body.
One can choose from different sauna recipes, all of which are tailored to fit your needs and preferences. There's a traditional Finnish sauna, which uses dry heat generated by a wood, electric, or gas stove. The temperate typically ranges from 80°C to 110°C with low humidity levels. Then there are infrared saunas, which emit radiant heat that is absorbed directly by the body, rather than heating the air around you. The temperatures in this type of sauna are lower (usually between 49°C to 60°C), making it more tolerable for those sensitive to high heat. Lastly, steam rooms, also known as wet saunas, utilise moist heat generated by boiling water to release steam into the air. The humidity levels are much higher, typically around 110°C to 120°C, making it much more intense than the others.
So what are the benefits of sauna therapy?
Relaxation and stress reduction
Sauna sessions trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. The heat also helps relax muscles and relieve tension, contributing to a sense of calm amid the chaos of wedding planning, allowing you to unwind, relax, and recharge both, mentally and physically.
Quality bonding time
A sauna session can be a wonderful way for you and your partner to spend quality time together, away from the stresses of wedding planning. It makes for a serene environment where you can connect, talk, and support each other, strengthening your bond as you prepare for your big day.
Glowing skin for the big day
The steam during sauna therapy opens up your pores and promotes sweating, providing a healthy, natural glow. Moreover, the heat also leads to an increased blood flow in your skin which promotes collagen production, which in return improves your skin’s elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Pain relief and muscle relaxation
Long hours of wedding planning can take a toll on your body, leading to muscle tension and fatigue. Sauna therapy can help alleviate muscle soreness, reduce tension, and promote relaxation, allowing you to feel more comfortable and at ease as you navigate through the final preparations for your wedding festivities.
Improved sleep quality
Wedding stress often disrupts sleep patterns, leaving you feeling tired and irritable. Sauna therapy helps promote relaxation and regulates your sleep cycle, leading to improved sleep quality.
Enhanced immune function
The last thing you want is to fall ill before your wedding day. Sauna therapy increases white blood cell production and promotes detoxification, reducing your risk of falling sick during this critical time.
How much time should one spend in a sauna?
The amount of time you spend in a sauna can vary depending on factors like personal tolerance, health conditions, etc. However, it is recommended that you spend at least 10 to 15 minutes per session for traditional dry saunas and around 5 to 10 minutes for infrared saunas.
It's important to start slow and see how your body reacts to sauna therapy. Start with shorter sessions, especially if you're new to sauna therapy, and gradually increase the duration as you get accustomed to the heat. Remember to stay hydrated before, during, and after your sauna session, and if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or uncomfortable, exit the sauna immediately and cool down.
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