Use Saunas to Detoxify the Body

Monday, December 29, 2008 by: Jo Hartley
Tags: detoxification, health news, Natural News

(NewsTarget) Sweat is a very effective and important way that the body eliminates toxins from the system. Toxic chemicals are unavoidable in today's society and most people are exposed to toxins every day. The skin is considered a major eliminative organ, but it does so in a relatively passive manner. For this reason, the use of saunas can help encourage toxin elimination through the skin.

Viruses, cells tainted by toxins, and even tumors are not as strong as normal cells. When these tissues are exposed to heat, infections heal faster. By using a sauna, the human body can effectively remove toxins and heavy metals much quicker than virtually any other method.

Similarly, fever therapy (hyperthermia) is an effective way to fight infections (including even cancer). When the human body is sick, it often naturally develops an elevated temperature to increase metabolism and destroy invading viruses. A sauna can improve blood circulation and help bring oxygen to tissues. A sauna can also clear nasal passages and drain clogged sinuses.

A traditional sauna is either powered by electricity, gas, or wood heat. The sauna must be heated to between 150 and 200 degrees to produce a sweat that is profuse. Many people do not tolerate this intense heat well, unfortunately, especially when ill.

One specific type of sauna that is especially effective at removing toxins from the body is the far-infrared sauna. This type of sauna has a dry and warming energy and is able to heat up tissues in the human body that are several inches deep. It also enhances the metabolic processes.

Research has revealed that the far-infrared sauna is far more cleansing that any type of traditional sauna because the deep penetration of the infrared energy allows for better toxin elimination. The heat generated from far infrared saunas heats the body while the surrounding air remains comparatively cool. Sweat will appear quickly, but people who experience this type of sauna consider it to be much more pleasant than traditional saunas.

Saunas are safe for most people as long as safety precautions are followed.

•Do not stay in the sauna for more than 30 minutes.

•Rest for at least 10 minutes after exiting the sauna. Drink lots of water before and after the sauna. If you water is mineral-free, consider adding minerals or juice. You may also add additional sea salt to replace minerals lost through the sweating process.

•If there is a chronic condition or sensitivity, use a sauna under supervision and spend less time in the sauna.

•The best time of day to use a sauna is the evening. If one is ill, however, morning may be better due to higher energy levels.

•Start a sauna schedule with once per week, and work up to once per day, if desired.

•Shower frequently to cool the body down and to remove toxins from the skin.

A far-infrared sauna does not work through clothing. Men need to remember to protect their testicles from direct exposure from the infrared energy.

After the sauna, shower in a warm or cool (not hot) shower. Avoid soap because soap may leave a film on the skin and can clog pores. Wash off the sweat with a skin brush. This will invigorate the skin and enhances the cleansing of the sauna on the skin. Avoid lotions and creams after showering so as to avoid harmful chemicals from entering back into the system.

Source: http://www.healingdaily.com/exercise/sauna.h...

About the author

Jo Hartley
Wife, Mother of 8, and Grandmother of 2
Jo is a 41 year old home educator who has always gravitated toward a natural approach to life. She enjoys learning as much as possible about just about anything!
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