Why Sauna Makes You Happy
Why many people feel a profound sense of happiness after spending time in a sauna? Because during a sauna session our body increases the production of happy hormones, such as endorphins and serotonin, that promote a sense of relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance overall mood. Many biochemical and physiological mechanisms collectively contribute to this. This neurochemical response to heat exposure is a key reason why many people feel relaxed and uplifted after a sauna session.
A Little Bit about “Happy Hormones”
There are four major “happy” chemicals in our brain that influence our happiness and pleasure while reducing depression and anxiety: Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphins – DOSE. They are neurotransmitters – the chemical messengers between neurons (nerve cells) in the brain and throughout the body that help neurons communicate with each other. Their job is to secrete and carry chemical molecules (signals or messages) from one neuron to the next target cell (the cell receiving the signal). The target cell may be another neuron but could also be a gland or muscle cell.
Neurotransmitters enable the brain to provide a huge variety of tasks that our body can’t function without. Their biological role is complex, touching on diverse functions including mood, cognition, reward, learning, memory, and numerous physiological processes.
Endorphins (contracted from endogenous morphine) are peptides, the neurotransmitters released by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus in the brain. As natural hormones, they can alleviate pain, lower stress, improve mood, and enhance your sense of well-being.
There are many things that can boost the happy hormones productions such as doing pleasurable activities, eating, exercising, having sex, getting a massage, and etc. Sauna heat is one of them. Let’s consider why.
Sauna Boosts Happy Hormones Production
Let’s see what scientists say about this phenomenon:
Heat Stress and Endorphin Release
Regular sauna sessions can promote brain health by increasing neuroplasticity and stimulating the growth of new brain cells. This effect is linked to the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps support cognitive functions and resilience against neurodegenerative diseases. The BDNF increases activates the growth of new brain cells, better maintaining existing cells, and improving neuroplasticity, the brain’s process for forming new neural connections.
Activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis
The HPA axis is a complex set of interactions among the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. During a sauna session, heat stress activates the HPA axis, leading to the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a stress hormone. However, after the sauna session, cortisol levels typically decrease, leading to a relaxation response and a reduction in stress.
Increased Blood Flow and Serotonin Production
The heat from the sauna causes vasodilation, increasing blood flow throughout the body, including the brain. This enhanced blood flow helps deliver more oxygen and nutrients, which can boost the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation. Higher levels of serotonin contribute to feelings of happiness and well-being.
A study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research found that sauna therapy could alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, potentially due to the release of endorphin, serotonin, and other mood-enhancing chemicals. Another study in the Journal of Affective Disorders noted that hyperthermic (heat) therapy, like that experienced in saunas, could reduce depressive symptoms by influencing the body’s neurochemical balance.
Thermal Regulation and Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs)
Heat exposure induces the production of heat shock proteins (HSPs), which help protect cells from damage caused by stressors like high temperatures. HSPs play a role in cellular repair and maintaining protein structure. Their activation during sauna use can have neuroprotective effects, potentially enhancing mood and cognitive function.
Happiness, Joy, and Fun of Sauna Sessions
Walking into a sauna it’s like stepping into a magical sweat lodge where all your problems melt away. But did you know saunas aren’t just about getting hot and sweaty? Here are some surprisingly quirky benefits:
- The Great Sweat Escape: Sure, you’re sweating buckets, but it’s not just the water weight – you’re evicting those pesky toxins like a landlord with an eviction notice. It’s like giving your body a deep cleanse without the juice fast!
- The Mood Boost: Feeling down? Step into a sauna and get hit with an endorphin rush. It’s like nature’s way of giving you a hug and saying, “You got this!” Plus, you can blame the rosy cheeks on the heat instead of blushing from that awkward encounter earlier.
- The Secret Workout: Did you know sitting in a sauna can raise your heart rate just like a light workout? So, technically, you can say you worked out today—no gym required! It’s like cardio for the lazy (and sweaty).
- The Fountain of Youth (Sort Of): Sauna sessions can give you that glow-up, making your skin look fabulous. Who needs a fancy skincare routine when you can just sit and sweat it out? It’s like a spa day without the cucumber slices!
- Stress? Never Heard of It: The sauna is the ultimate stress-buster. It’s like stepping into a hot, stress-melting cocoon where your worries evaporate like mist. Plus, it’s a great place to practice your deep breathing – just don’t breathe too deeply, or you might end up tasting your neighbor’s cologne!
So next time you’re in a sauna, remember: you’re not just sitting in a hot room. You’re sweating out your problems, boosting your mood, getting a workout, and achieving that perfect glow – all while pretending you’re in a Scandinavian getaway! Who knew a little heat could be so cool?