Why does a sauna feel so good?
After a few minutes in the heat, your body starts to sweat, your heart rate increases and you breathe more deeply.
Behind the feeling of calm and warmth lie several powerful processes in the body:
- The heart works faster – much like during light exercise.
- Blood vessels dilate and circulation increases.
- The body gets rid of waste products through sweat.
- The nervous system calms down – and the stress hormone cortisol is reduced.
When you go outside, you feel lighter, calmer, and more alert. It's physiology, not just emotion.
The science behind saunas – the study everyone is referring to
One of the most well-known and thorough studies on sauna comes from the University of Eastern Finland (Laukkanen et al., 2015).
In this long-term study, researchers followed over 2,300 men for 20 years, and found that:
- Those who took a sauna 2–3 times a week had a 23% lower risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease.
- Those who took a sauna 4–7 times a week had a 50% lower risk of heart disease, as well as a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer's.
The study also showed that regular use improved sleep, reduced stress levels, and increased feelings of well-being.
A sauna thus functions as a “passive workout” for the body – but with calm instead of exertion.
Documented health benefits of sauna use
1. Better heart health
Heat exposure causes the heart to pump more efficiently, which strengthens blood vessels and reduces blood pressure over time.
2. Stronger immune system
Regular use stimulates white blood cells and the body's natural defense mechanisms.
3. Faster recovery
The muscles relax, and increased blood flow helps the body transport away lactic acid and inflammation.
4. Better sleep
After a sauna, your body temperature naturally drops, signaling to your brain that it is time to rest.
5. Reduced stress and improved mood
The heat increases the production of endorphins and serotonin – natural “happiness hormones”.
6. Healthier skin
Sweating opens pores and removes impurities, while increased circulation gives a fresher glow.
Fun facts about saunas and health
- In Finland, there are more saunas than cars – and for good reason.
- During a 20-minute sauna session, your heart rate increases as much as during moderate jogging.
- Studies show that regular sauna use can lower the risk of depression.
- Sweating in a sauna removes heavy metals such as lead, nickel and mercury from the body.
- Many people find that a sauna after exercise reduces DOMS (day after muscle soreness).
Combine sauna and cold plunge for maximum effect
When you go from a sauna to a cold pool, something unique happens:
- The sauna dilates blood vessels and increases circulation.
- The cold snap tightens them again, forcing the body to adapt quickly.
This contrast trains the heart, blood vessels and nervous system, and gives an extreme feeling of calm and energy.
That's why the combination has become standard in spas, fitness centers - and thousands of Norwegian homes.
How NorthSauna can help
At NorthSauna you will find saunas in all sizes and styles – from compact indoor models to exclusive outdoor saunas with panoramic windows.
All are built for maximum heating efficiency, safety and design in Nordic conditions.
Do you want to know which model suits you best?
👉 See the selection of saunas here
or contact us – and we will help you find the right solution for your home.
