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The role of sauna in detoxification

Sweat is a most important elimination route for toxins. Everyone today is exposed to toxic chemicals and heavy metals. Although it is a major eliminative organ, most people's skin is very inactive. Repeated use of the sauna can help slowly restore skin elimination.

Viruses, toxin-burdened cells and tumors are weaker than normal cells and tolerate heat poorly. The heating of the tissues which takes place in a sauna helps the body heal from infections more quickly.

The proponents of hyperthermia - fever therapy - maintain that it can help fight infections and even cancer. Our bodies naturally develop fever when we are ill in order to enhance metabolism and help destroy viruses. Saunas improve blood circulation and help oxygenate the tissues. They open the nasal passages and help drain the sinuses.

Through the use of the sauna, one can remove toxic chemicals and metals from the body faster than with any other method.

Benefits of the far-infrared sauna

The traditional sauna is electric, gas or wood heated. Pre-heating the sauna to 150 to 200 degrees is needed to produce profuse sweating. Such intense heat is difficult for many people to tolerate, especially when someone is ill.

A very efficient way to detoxify the body is the far-infrared sauna. The far-infrared sauna's dry and warming energy is highly compatible with the human body and heats up the tissues several inches deep which enhances metabolic processes.

According to research, the far-infrared sauna is more cleansing than traditional saunas. The deep-penetrating infrared energy allows for better elimination of toxins from the cells.

Far-infrared heats the body while the surrounding air remains cool. Sweating usually begins quickly and most far-infrared sauna users consider the experience to be quite pleasant.

Sauna safety

Saunas are safe for most people so long as the sauna user follows a few simple rules:

Stay inside the sauna for no more than 30 minutes at a time.

Lie down or sit for at least 10 minutes after using the sauna. Make sure you drink plenty of mineralized water before and after the sauna. Add minerals or juice to your water if it is mineral-free. It is also a good idea to add extra sea salt to your diet to replace minerals lost through sweating in the sauna.

Use the sauna under supervision if you have a chronic condition. If you are debilitated or very sensitive to heat, begin with a shorter period of time in the sauna. The presence of an attendant or friend in the sauna can also be very helpful.

If you use the sauna once a day, the evening is probably the best time. If you are ill, however, the morning may prove a better time because your energy levels are higher. Using the sauna less often is also acceptable if you are just beginning or if your goal is to maintain your health. If you have a condition which is very debilitating, begin with using the sauna once a week. You may gradually work your way up to using the sauna daily as you feel able.

While using the sauna, it is important to take frequent showers in order to cool down as well as to remove substances from the skin and prevent their re-absorption.

Taking the Sauna.

The infrared sauna does not work through clothes. Men should position themselves so that the testicles are not directly exposed to the infrared energy. It's a good idea to pass the time in the sauna meditating or reviewing your day.

Use a small towel to wipe off the sweat.

Remain in the sauna for no more than 30 minutes.

When you are done, take a shower, either warm or cool, but not hot. It is best to not use soap as you will be clean. Soap leaves a film on the skin and clogs the pores. Wash off the sweat with a skin brush to envigorate the skin. Brushing enhances the cleansing effect. Shampoo and conditioner should only be used if needed, as most of these products contain chemicals which are toxic to the body. Also skip most lotions and creams for the same reason: most contain harmful chemicals.

After the sauna, drink a glass of mineralized water. Lie down or sit for at least 10 minutes. These simple steps will allow your body to reap the full benefits from the sauna. The healthier you become, the more easily you will sweat.

Sauna as part of an integrated health regimen

Your health will benefit much more if you use saunas as part of an integrated health regimen. Eat natural foods that contain enzymes and are as close to their raw state as possible. Vegetable juicing is a great way to do this. Get plenty of restful sleep, and exercise a little each day. Breathe deeply air that is clean and fresh. Reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals.

My favorite source for high quality saunas for the home is Hammacher Schlemmer.

© 2003 Healing Daily