Life is full of every day stresses and this in combination with physical and mental strains is a reason that looking after our own personal wellbeing is so important.
We believe in supporting our physical and mental health, which is sometimes easier said than done. We often check in and look into which key 'pillars' of life are struggling and try to find ways of balancing ourselves and trying to find ways to support others. We are always learning and developing. Most often, we connect with ancient traditions and rituals across different cultures to do this.
When you say the word 'Sauna' you probably have a very visual response in your head, for us, we are transported to our Nordic trips over the years. That crisp freezing air combined with the steam from a lagoon, the rich cedar wood sauna; a multi sensory experience.
A brief historic reference to the Sauna.
löyly, pronounced low-lu. Is what Finnish call the steam that rises from the stones, but it’s original connotation signified “spirit”. Even “life.” Many consider löyly to be the soul of the sauna, and it has connection with the sacred that goes back too far to date.'1'
The sauna has a long association with the Finish people, references go back two thousand years. With counterparts across the world - the neighbouring Russian banya to the Japanese sentō and mushi-buro, to the Islamic hammam and its Westernisation as the Turkish bath, to the Mesoamerican temescal and the North American sweat lodges.
Since the mid-twentieth century sauna has become an increasingly global phenomenon, capturing the imagination, warming bones, and neutralising stress from Norway to Antarctica.'2' This has maintained as esteemed a position in society today.
photo above. Still London Sauna.
Although the health benefits of the Sauna are plenty we’ve put together some of our favourites below.
1. Detoxification
Infrared saunas help increase your blood circulation and stimulate the sweat glands, releasing built-up toxins in the body.
2. Ease joint pain and stiffness
Infrared heat may temporarily ease joint pain and stiffness. Increased thermal energy to the joints may promote a temporary increase in blood flow. Increased thermal energy may reduce stiffness and increase range of motion.
3. Skin
Sweating achieved after just a few minutes in our infrared Sauna will allow impurities in the pores to come out. The temporary increase in local blood circulation may help reduce the risk of certain chronic skin conditions.
4. Muscle pain relief
Increased blood circulation carries off metabolic waste products and delivers oxygen-rich blood to oxygen-depleted muscle, so they can recover faster. Muscles relax best when tissues are warm, for greater flexibility and range of motion.
Above all we find the sauna a meditative process that connects you with your body, controlling your breathe and slowing down.
References:
- Roy, R (1996) The Sauna. 2nd edn.
- Tsonis,J. Sauna Studies as an Academic Field’