During a 30 minute sauna session, your heart rate increases by 50-75%. This provides the same metabolic result as physical exercise, and studies have shown that you can burn anywhere from 300-1200 calories. The increased cardiac load is equivalent to a brisk walk. There is a nominal effect on blood pressure because the heat also causes blood vessels in skin to expand to accommodate increased blood flow.

Blood vessels become more flexible and there is increased circulation to the extremities. During a sauna, blood flow to the skin increases to as high as 50-70% of cardiac output (compared to the standard 5-10%). This brings nutrients to subcutaneous and surface tissue resulting in glowing, healthy skin.

Saunas induce sweating to provide a comprehensive cleansing of the skin and sweat glands. Skin is the largest organ in the body, and 30% of body wastes are passed through the skin. Profuse sweating enhances the detoxifying capacity of the skin by opening pores and flushing impurities from the body.

When taking a sauna, skin temperature rises to 40°C (104°F) and internal body temperature rises to about 38°C (100.4°F). Exposure to the high heat creates an artificial fever state. Fever is part of the body’s natural healing process, and it stimulates the immune system, resulting in increased production of disease fighting white blood cells, antibodies and interferon (an anti-viral protein with cancer fighting capability).

The sauna pod, especially used in conjunction with massage and a body mask, is an excellent tool for loosening fatty tissue and assisting in the battle against cellulite. Also, many sauna users claim that a “good sweat” at the onset helps relieve and ward off the most severe symptoms of cold or flu.

The sauna pod also provides relief from the pain and stiffness of arthritis, revival of tired and strained muscles after physical exertion (breaks down the buildup of lactic acid), and the cleansing effect of profuse perspiration helps provide healthy skin.