Over the past decade, home saunas have gained popularity, transitioning from a luxury typically found in spas and gyms to a household wellness feature. This shift is largely driven by growing evidence that regular sauna use offers various health benefits, particularly for cardiovascular health. Dr. Zeke McKinney from the University of Minnesota highlights that the heat from saunas causes blood vessels to dilate, enhancing blood flow, which can lower the risk of sudden cardiac death, reduce blood pressure, and lessen arterial disease.
SereneLife Full-Size Portable Steam Sauna
Saunas also show potential benefits beyond cardiovascular health. Dr. Hunter Scott Waldman from the University of Northern Alabama notes that saunas may improve insulin sensitivity and offer mental and cognitive health benefits, though research is still ongoing. When choosing a home sauna, Waldman categorizes options into wet, dry, and infrared. Most studies focus on dry saunas, which heat the air, while infrared saunas, which heat the body directly, are less researched but generally considered effective and more affordable. Both experts advise caution for individuals with heart conditions, pregnant women, and men planning to conceive, recommending that users start with lower temperatures and shorter sessions.
