Cooling down after sauna – why is it important
The process of cooling down after a sauna session is essential for your body. It helps to prevent the risks of overheating and dehydration, which are common during or after a sauna session. Holistic experts say that cooling down after a sauna also helps to improve blood circulation and reduce muscle soreness. When you are in the sauna, your body temperature rises, and you sweat profusely. The process of sweating helps to eliminate toxins from your body and cleanse your skin. However, after the sauna, your body temperature remains high, and your heart rate increases. This is why it’s crucial to cool down your body gradually to balance your internal system.The risks of showering immediately after a sauna
After a relaxing sauna session, the first thing that comes to mind is usually taking a shower. However, showering immediately after a sauna can have adverse effects on your body. When you expose your body to cold water too quickly, it can cause a shock reaction, leading to chest pain and even fainting. Another potential problem with showering immediately after a sauna is that you stop sweating. When you shower, you wash away the sweat that had been building up on your skin. The sudden drop in body temperature can cause your blood vessels to constrict, which can be dangerous, especially for people with hypertension or heart diseases.How much time must you take to cool down after a sauna?
To avoid the risks of showering immediately after a sauna, you should allow enough time to cool down gradually. Experts recommend taking between 10 to 15 minutes to cool down after a sauna session. During this period, it’s advisable to sit or lie down and relax your mind and body. This way, your blood circulation stabilizes, and your heart rate slows down before you step into the shower.Tips for cooling down after a sauna
- Drink a cold glass of water or juice to help regulate your body temperature, and rehydrate your body.
- Sit or lie down and take deep breathes in through the nose and out through the mouth. This helps to oxygenate your body and calm your mind.
- Use a damp towel to wipe off the sweat from your skin instead of showering.
- Take a short walk outside to breathe in fresh air and allow your body to cool down slowly.