Traditional Sauna
The dry heat in the sauna opens the pores, aids in detoxification, promotes relaxation, and increases circulation and warmth in the muscles. Taking a sauna is a great therapy before and after a massage or body treatment.
Steps for a therapeutic sauna:
Hydrate before, during, and after.
Heat: Stay in the sauna for 10-15 minutes, or until you can feel beads of perspiration forming on your chest.
You may want to ladle water onto the hot rocks and create a steam to enhance the experience or if the air feels too dry in the sauna.
Cold: Leave the sauna and enter directly into the cooling experience—either a cold (or cool) shower or cold plunge. If you choose a shower, making sure to get your head and face under the cold water to heighten the experience and prevent headaches, which can sometimes happen with excessive heat. Be sure to include your hands and feet as well, as these areas have plentiful lymphatic tissue.
Rest for 15-20 minutes; allow your body temperature to equalize, and enjoy the flow of endorphins created by the experience.
Repeat if desired.
These three steps can be repeated up to three times, provided you are feeling well and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.