Some of the most promising areas of research currently being explored related to saunas are effects felt on the brain. An infrared sauna, going by the evidence already produced, promotes strong brain performance and the growth of new brain cells. Some scientific research is also showing infrared saunas have helped with neuron repair. If the research already conducted is anywhere close to the discoveries that have yet to be made, the brain benefits of an infrared sauna are very real.
Saunas increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor, also known as BDNF. Heat stress combined with exercise is known to increase BDNF production more than exercise alone. BDNF is very important as it plays a role in increasing the growth of new brain cells and helps one’s existing brain cells survive. BDNF also increase neuroplasticity which is helpful for learning new tasks and improving long-term memory. Low BDNF has been linked with mental health conditions such as depression and chronic fatigue syndrome. An increase in this important body composition element could potentially resolve a number of these issues.
Although BDNF isn’t the only effect an infrared sauna has on the brain, it is a promising area of research that continues to be analyzed. BDNF naturally increases when we exercise. This is believed to be the only reason why exercise improves brain health and protects from neurodegenerative disease.
Saunas increase BDNF even further, in addition to improving production of hormones like norepinephrine and prolactin as well as helping with myelin growth and nerve repair. Norepinephrine, for example, increases as much as 2-4 times while in a sauna. Norepinephrine improves focus and attention, and through heat stress, can be stored for later use as well. Then, there’s prolactin which promotes myelin growth. Myelin insulates nerve fibers and increases the speed of nerve impulses which helps the brain to work faster. Tracing back to prolactin levels, myelin is also an important element in the repair of nerve cell damage. Norepinephrine and prolactin are both related increased mental performance.
Considering all these brain benefits, can an infrared sauna impact mental health? Evidently, absolutely. Stress-related conditions such as anxiety are easily affected by saunas as they eliminate or reduce stress triggers in the body. Secondly, regarding depression, the increase in norepinephrine is preventative to depression. The infrared heat therapy also assists in increasing serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine as well – all known as ‘happy’ brain chemicals. Glucocorticoids and adrenaline – known as stress hormones – are greatly reduced as well.
If you’ve never tried infrared saunas before, take note of the impact you suspect it has on your brain’s performance. You may appear happier, more focused, and less stressed. This is very common. Through prolonged use, an infrared sauna can evidently have some major impacts in treating or preventing neurological disorders and memory-related issues. The brain is still a mysterious thing to many scientists. We only know so much about the brain but from what we know, an infrared sauna poses no risk and comes with a long list of rewards.
Are you looking for an infrared sauna for your home or place of business? Steam Sauna is North America’s top supplier of steam rooms and infrared saunas, and a representative would be pleased to help you select the right model for your needs.