4 REASONS YOU SHOULD ENJOY THE SAUNA

For years, the only reason why I went to the gym was to enjoy the sauna!  Nick and I would walk in and part ways with plans to meet back in the lobby in 1 hour...that gave me 30 minutes in the sauna and 30 minutes to shower in luxury with as many clean towels as a girl could ask for.  I've tried to convince every family member and friend to come with me and enjoy the experience, but most people say they can't stand the heat.  So, in my efforts to sway minds, I did my research.  Turns out, the sauna isn't just a place to get all sweaty, but it actually has some great health benefits!

1.  RELAX

Usually when I get in the sauna, I have the entire room to myself and can lay down and stretch out.  The air is hot, the light is dim and I frequently end up falling asleep because it's so peaceful.  My muscles begin to relax, which is especially great when I'm sore or achy from exercise.  I take time to take deep breaths and stretch.  I love to think through things going on in my mind and come out feeling like I have a little less weight on my shoulders.  It's wonderful at night, right before bed.  I come home so relaxed, take a long shower and sleep like a baby!

2.  GET SWEATY

It's true.  When you get in the sauna, you are going to sweat.  But sweating is actually good for you!  Everyday we are taking in toxins from our environment...food we eat, air we breathe, toiletries and cleaning supplies we use.  It's important to get those toxins out of our bodies!  When I am regularly visiting the sauna, I can see that my skin is clearing up, tightening up and I have a slight glow...it's like the Fountain of Youth!  Just make sure you drink plenty of water so that you don't get dehydrated!

3.  LOSE WEIGHT

Because of the heat, your heart gets a little bit of a work out too!  Your metabolism will speed up and it's even great for your circulation.  When I am in there, I feel myself get sweatier at the same time as I feel my heart start beating a little harder.  It's not the same as going out and doing an intense work out, but when I am using the sauna frequently, I can tell it's easier for me to keep my weight in check!

4.  PAMPER YOURSELF

My sisters and I love to go to the sauna and treat ourselves to our very our spa experience.  We will bring anything and everything from homemade hair masque, to face scrub and face masque, some body scrub, a dry brush and various essential oils and come out feeling like brand new people.  Plus, it's fun to sit in there with a friend anyway!  Perfect time to catch up while you are taking care of yourself.

So, you see now?  The sauna is good for our overall health!  Who knew we can look good and feel good just by sitting in a small, dark, hot box?  What about you...are you already a sauna lover or have I turned you into one?