In the heat, your heart speeds up to 100–150 beats a minute and the blood vessels in your skin widen to release heat, a load similar to moderate exercise such as brisk walking.
Afterwards, blood pressure often settles a little lower than before.
What the research found
A study that followed 2,315 middle-aged Finnish men for about 20 years found that those who used the sauna 4 to 7 times a week were about half as likely to die from heart disease as those who went once a week.
The length of a session counted too: sessions of more than 19 minutes were linked with a lower risk than sessions of less than 11 minutes.
What it means for you
These studies show a link, not proof: people who use the sauna often may also lead healthier lives. Still, the pattern is clear: frequency counts.
Several comfortable sessions a week do more than one very hot one. If you have a heart condition, ask your doctor before you start.
Compare the Health data you have
With your permission, compare available heart rate, HRV and sleep data. Missing measurements stay missing, and comparisons do not establish that sauna caused a change.
Keep temperature, humidity, sauna type and notes together. Return to your session history to compare your routine over time.
Explore the sauna timer and session logSources
- Laukkanen T. et al. Association between sauna bathing and fatal cardiovascular and all-cause mortality events. JAMA Internal Medicine, 2015.
- Laukkanen J. A. et al. Cardiovascular and other health benefits of sauna bathing: a review of the evidence. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2018.
General information, not medical advice.
