When I feel stressed, sore, achy, and generally polluted, I head for the steam room at my gym. Steam rooms are becoming increasingly popular in the West, with saunas popping up in gyms, spas, and resorts. It's no secret that people report feeling energized and renewed after emerging from a steam room! There are numerous health benefits that can be achieved from sweating it out and relaxing for a few minutes.
A steam room is lot less scary than it sounds. It's basically an enclosed space that is heated by a big heater or steamer. Most steam rooms are kept at a warm and comfortable temperature so that you are not scalded.
I sometimes think they should call it the sweat room, because it just pours off my body! It's a good thing that sweating is believed to help the body rid itself of potentially harmful toxins and wastes. Some studies show that steam helps to regulate the body's temperature, keeps our circulatory system in working order, and cleanses our skin. I really noticed the difference the first time I steamed. My pores opened right up and my skin was glowing when I left.
The first time I used the steam room, it was after a yoga workout. I was complaining about being stiff, when my friend told me to use the steam rooms. A lot of people steam after working out because the humidity helps to maintain proper oxygen and blood circulation throughout the body so that all your muscles and joints are well-lubricated and relaxed. I didn't feel my usual joint stiffness or muscle aches the next day. I was hooked.
Steam rooms are also effective for people who suffer from respiratory illnesses or have problems breathing. The air in steam rooms is generally moist and humid, conditions that help the lungs and bronchial tubes to relax and open. Last fall when I had a bad sinus cold, I found a lot of relief from steaming. After only a single session in a steam room, I noticed a sense of deep relaxation. My friend says she uses the steam room to help her deal with work stress and insomnia. (Note: Always visit your doctor before using a steam room if you have any respiratory concerns of any kind.)
Here is some advice passed on to me to help me get the most out of my steam room experience. First, take a warm shower before entering the room. Try to stay seated for at least 15 minutes before exiting the room. It's important to drink LOTS of water after you have a steam room session so that your body stays hydrated. These simple rules will help you to reap the maximum benefit from your steamy session so that you can leave feeling refreshed and healthy. I'm so glad I tried it. You will be too.
