We have all heard of a detox, whether it be from a technology detox, a physical detox, a diet that revolves around a detoxifying of the body in some shape or form, but ,
where has this terminology and concept come from ?
The idea that toxic substances cause diseases is very ancient. It is mentioned in Greek and Roman medical texts, and in older writings as well.
Ancient Chinese medical writings speak of ‘harmful chi’ and contain other references to toxins that cause illness.
Could you imagine the thought of falling ill in anyway shape or form back in these ancient times? Being hit with one of these toxic substances and the impact they could have on your being but not knowing how or why this has happened and why do you not feel right ?
When you knew you weren’t firing from all cylinders in anyway shape or form and you would not even know how to even go about attempting to fix, heal or cure your ailment.
Baths ,enemas, poultices, emetics, laxatives, purgatives, skin brushing, cleansing diets and other methods for eliminating poisons are integral parts of these sciences.
The process of sweating in saunas plays a vital role in promoting detoxification and aiding the body’s natural cleansing mechanisms. Here’s a few key bullet points of how the special environment of a traditional sauna promotes sweating and its impact on releasing toxins and impurities from the body.
– Saunas create a controlled and elevated heat environment that raises the body’s core temperature (averagely 1 degree within 20-30 minutes over 83 degrees celsius sauna). As a response to this heat stress, the body initiates sweating as a cooling mechanism. Sweat glands, which are distributed throughout the skin, become active and dump sweat onto our skin to keep us cool to adapt to the stressor of the heat. Sweat is primarily composed of water, along with trace amounts of minerals and other waste products.
– In addition to physical detoxification, saunas can have mental and emotional cleansing effects. The act of sweating and engaging in heat therapy is often associated with a feeling of release and relaxation. Sitting in the sauna triggers the production of endorphins (the happy hormone) Many people find that sauna sessions provide an opportunity to unwind, de-stress, and clear their minds.
– Sweating is one of the body’s natural ways of eliminating waste and toxins. Toxins and impurities can accumulate in the body through various sources, including environmental pollutants, dietary choices, and metabolic processes. When you sweat, these toxins are excreted through the skin, effectively reducing the body’s toxin load.
– Sweating in saunas has been suggested as a method for eliminating certain heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, and mercury. These metals can accumulate in the body over time and can even be absorbed(although in very small doses) through the skin in our day to day lives through you clothes or diet or even inhaled through the air. A 15 minute session in 93.3 – degree dry sauna resulted in about 40 micrograms of lead being forced out of the body, with some ridding themselves of 100 micrograms or more (for those who wish to read more into this, https://nutritionfacts.org/blog/can-we-detoxify-lead-from-our-body-in-a-sauna/). Sweating can facilitate the excretion of some of these metals, contributing to their removal from the body.
– Sweating also plays a role in maintaining the health and cleanliness of the skin. As sweat is released, it helps to clear out pores and remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells from the surface. This can contribute to a clearer complexion and improved skin texture.
– The increased heart rate and improved blood circulation that occur during sauna sessions also aid in the detoxification process. Enhanced circulation helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues, while also facilitating the removal of waste products from cells.
– It’s important to note that while sweating is beneficial for detoxification, it can also lead to fluid and electrolyte loss. Staying properly hydrated before, during, and after a sauna session is crucial to maintain the body’s balance and prevent dehydration.
– The amount of sweat and the specific toxins eliminated through sweating can vary from person to person. Factors such as individual metabolism, genetics, sauna temperature, and duration of the session all play a role in the extent of detoxification achieved.
It’s important to approach sauna use for detoxification with a balanced perspective. While saunas can contribute to the elimination of toxins through sweat, they should not be viewed as a sole or comprehensive method of detoxification.
A healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, proper hydration, and minimising exposure to environmental toxins also plays a significant role in supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes. As always, if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating sauna sessions into your routine.
Do not be the preacher after doing it once and claiming it has changed your life forever!
No one needs another silver bullet solution.
Get focused in on your
‘WHY?’
Why are you doing it in the first place ?
Once you understand this than it becomes és easier to adopt. You realise then that it doesn’t need to be the only reason why you are doing it, but, having a clear purpose will allow you to stay focused when times get busy, when times get difficult without a clear focus is when you will drop off from your own goal.
I hope you enjoyed reading this Blog post on detoxification and the role sauna bathing could play for helping to revitalise the body through merely ‘Sweating’
Please be sure to comment your thoughts.
As always,
Fad Saoil x
