Fourteen years ago, I built a near-infrared sauna in my closet. At the time, sauna therapy was a niche, almost a fringe practice, largely misunderstood and rarely discussed. Social media wasn’t flooded with wellness trends, and conversations around holistic therapies were far less mainstream. Looking back, I realize I was unknowingly part of a movement before it had a name—a biohacker in the making, testing and researching alternative therapies out of sheer curiosity and a life-long interest. In those days, there were no sleek sauna cabins readily available on platforms like Wayfair or Costco. Saunas were rare, especially near-infrared models. Yet, I was drawn to the promise of its healing power, and so began my journey—experimenting, learning, and committing to this sacred practice. Over the years, I explored every style: Finnish, electric, far-infrared, near-infrared, wood-burning, sweat lodges, and steam saunas. What struck me most was the profound impact sauna therapy had on my health. During the first decade of consistent use during the colder months —3-5 times weekly, 45 minutes per session—I never fell ill. Not a single winter cold, no flus, no infections. My body thrived in ways I didn’t fully comprehend at the time. Then, 2020 arrived. On January 28th, I contracted COVID-19—what I now jokingly call my “OG” COVID experience, the year my 10-year wellness streak came to an end. Recovery was hard, and in the months that followed, my lung capacity deteriorated alarmingly. Simple tasks like walking ten steps left me gasping for air. It was terrifying. I worked for several months with acupuncture and low level laser infusions, but that treatment wasn't working for this. So I turned back to what I knew, sauna therapy. Twice daily, 40-minute sessions in my homemade near-infrared sauna. Within ten days, something incredible happened—my breathing returned to normal. The relief and gratitude I felt in those moments are hard to put into words. I truly believe sauna therapy played a pivotal role in my recovery. Today, as sauna culture continues to grow, with influencers, doctors, and researchers shedding light on its many benefits, I feel a deep sense of joy and validation. The innovations in sauna manufacturing reflect the growing interest in this ancient and sacred practice, and I’m thrilled to see so many people discovering its transformative potential. If you are new to this therapy, I encourage you to check out the large number of YouTube videos from cardiologists and medical doctors who discuss in depth the growing body of research. As my sister Kim always said, "be your own health advocate". Without further ado, here are 5 outstanding benefits of heat therapy by one of the most comprehensive researchers Dr. Jari Laukkanen. 1) Cardiovascular Health Dr. Jari Laukkanen, leading researcher in sauna therapy, has conducted extensive studies on its cardiovascular benefits. His 2015 study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, followed over 2,000 middle-aged men in Finland for two decades. The findings revealed that frequent sauna use (4–7 times per week) reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by up to 50% and sudden cardiac death by 63%, compared to those who used the sauna only once weekly. Sauna use was also linked to lower blood pressure and improved vascular function, making it a powerful tool for heart health. 2) Longevity and Overall Health Dr. Laukkanen’s research has also demonstrated that regular sauna bathing is associated with increased longevity. A 2018 study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that individuals who used saunas frequently were at a lower risk of all-cause mortality, suggesting that sauna therapy can play a role in extending lifespan and enhancing overall well-being. 3) Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery In addition to its cardiovascular benefits, sauna therapy aids in muscle recovery and pain management. The heat promotes circulation and helps reduce inflammation, speeding up the recovery process for athletes and individuals with chronic pain. 4) Stress Reduction and Mental Health Dr. Laukkanen’s research has also explored the mental health benefits of sauna use. By decreasing cortisol levels and increasing endorphins, sauna sessions are shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and even lower the risk of developing depression, as highlighted in his studies. 5) Immune System and Chronic Conditions Sauna therapy has been shown to boost immunity by increasing white blood cell production, helping the body fight off infections. It’s also been beneficial for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis and respiratory diseases, offering natural relief and improved quality of life. In closing, the groundbreaking work of Dr. Jari Laukkanen and others highlights the incredible health benefits of sauna therapy, from improved cardiovascular function to enhanced mental well-being. Incorporating regular sauna sessions into your routine can be a transformative step toward better health and longevity. Sauna therapy is so much more than a wellness trend; it’s a time-honored method of healing that continues to evolve with modern science. My hope in sharing this story is to inspire others to explore its potential. May it bring you the same strength, resilience, and peace it has brought me. With Love, Jennifer Perry ***As Always... This story reflects my personal journey and experiences with sauna therapy. It is shared from the heart, with the hope that it might inspire or resonate with others. However, it is not intended to serve as medical advice. Every individual is unique, and what worked for me may not be suitable for everyone. If you are considering sauna therapy or any other wellness practice, I encourage you to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific needs. Listen to your body, trust your intuition, and seek expert guidance when exploring new methods of healing. ![]() The studio's new solo sauna experience... a bit of an upgrade from my early years of heat therapy. As I have discovered throughout the years, relaxation while immersing yourself in a sauna experience is a sacred time and should be treated as such, for optimal healing. Comments are closed.
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AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
January 2025
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