HEALTH BENEFITS If you’re wondering why sauna is fast becoming so popular, there are a number of key health benefits you can see with regular practice. • Cardio vascular workout The body reacts to the heat of the sauna and gets the cardiovascular system working. Indeed, Finnish cardiologist, Dr Laukkanen conducted some research into the effects of regular sauna practice in men and discovered that saunaing four times a week could reduce risk of heart disease by 50 per cent. • Reducing inflammation Due to the hot and cold nature of the sauna experience, when practiced properly, the contrast therapy is great for reducing inflammation in the body. • Mental health Sauna practice encourages both light endorphin and dopamine release, which promotes better sleep. What’s more, the quiet environment offers the perfect opportunity to switch off some of the thinking brain. When you’re dealing with such intense heat and cold, there isn’t so much room to overthink, allowing you to be completely in the moment. • Social Although not necessarily a health benefit, the lesser-known social nature of sauna practice can also bring benefits to your general wellbeing. It’s a great place to connect with people for a chat and is certainly healthier than doing the same in the pub! • Me time Conversely, saunas are also a great place to grab some much-needed me time. Offering the ideal opportunity for a digital detox, there’s time and space to reflect on what your body is telling you. Time to check in with you. WEDDING PREP If you find your brain is working a million miles an hour with wedding plans constantly racing around, a sauna session among nature could be the perfect opportunity to recentre, whether that be grabbing some time for the two of you or enjoying an alternative, sober, reflective and relaxing hen or stag activity (if going out on the lash in Brighton isn’t for you!). In fact, Wild Spa Wowo is available for private hire for groups of up to 25 for £350. You can also choose to add hire of a yoga instructor, massage therapist or even a sauna master to run the rituals for your group making the most of your spa session. SAUNA RITUALS During an infusion ritual, water will be thrown on the rocks with various aromatherapy oils. When the steam rises, a sauna master will circulate it around the space with a towel or fan to give guests a sensory experience. Perfect for prime relaxation. Leaf whisking, also known as vihtominen or vasta, is when bunches of leafy branches, often birch, oak or eucalyptus, are used to gently tap or brush the body to promote circulation and enhance relaxation. Herbal waters made from rose, elderflower, birch or oak leaves, for example, can be added to a bucket of hot water to create different teas. These are then thrown onto the rocks for a beautiful gentle aroma. Alternatively, you may choose to wash with the waters. Saunas also provide a wonderful environment for guided meditation. ©Jo Thorne ©Jo Thorne WELLNESS FEATURE 79
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=