Day after day, after day. 

The magic of sauna lies within your commitment to the process. Like yoga, working out, business, or most things in life, the effects are compound. The hard part is making it happen every day or regularly. There are a few different tactics to make this process easier, including going with a friend, choosing the best time of day, and setting yourself up for success with habits. I’ll cover that in another read. Below you will read about what happens in the first twenty-four, the first week, month, and year of committing to a sauna practice. 

The First 24 hours 

Immediately after the session, you may feel an intense heat sensation, as your body temperature will have increased significantly. You may also feel a sense of relaxation and calmness due to the release of endorphins. Some individuals may feel dizzy or lightheaded, so taking your time and avoiding sudden movements is essential.

Within the first few hours, your body will continue to cool down, and you may start to feel thirsty. It’s necessary to drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body and replenish fluids lost through sweating. You may also notice that your skin feels softer and smoother due to the increase in blood circulation.

In the first 12 hours, you may experience a sense of fatigue, which is a normal response to the increase in metabolic rate during heat therapy. Your body is working harder to regulate your body temperature, and it’s imperative to listen to your body and rest if needed.

Within 24 hours, your body will have begun to adapt to the heat, and you may notice an increase in energy and mental clarity. Regular heat therapy has been shown to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health, which may contribute to this sense of well-being.

The First Week

Immediately after the session, you may feel an intense heat sensation, as your body temperature will have increased significantly. You may also feel a sense of relaxation and calmness due to the release of endorphins. Some individuals may feel dizzy or lightheaded, so taking your time and avoiding sudden movements is essential.

Within the first few hours, your body will continue to cool down, and you may start to feel thirsty. It’s necessary to drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body and replenish fluids lost through sweating. You may also notice that your skin feels softer and smoother due to the increase in blood circulation.

In the first 12 hours, you may experience a sense of fatigue, which is a normal response to the increase in metabolic rate during heat therapy. Your body is working harder to regulate your body temperature, and it’s imperative to listen to your body and rest if needed.

Within 24 hours, your body will have begun to adapt to the heat, and you may notice an increase in energy and mental clarity. Regular heat therapy has been shown to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health, which may contribute to this sense of well-being.

After the first year of sauna…

Over the course of a year, consistent heat therapy may lead to significant improvements in overall health and well-being. The cardiovascular system may continue to improve, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Chronic inflammation may continue to decrease, reducing the risk of a range of chronic health conditions. The immune system may become stronger, leading to a reduction in illness and a faster recovery time when illness does occur. Mental health benefits may become more pronounced, with improved cognitive function, reduced stress, and an overall sense of calm and focus. Overall, regular heat therapy may have a profound impact on a person’s health and well-being, with benefits that continue to manifest over time. As with any health practice, it is important to consult with a physician before beginning a new routine and to practice consistently over time to see the full benefits.