Sweat is the New Superfood

In what seems like an endless world of fitness trends and health fads, there's a time tested habit that’s quietly waiting to transform your wellbeing: the sauna.

As someone who's been religiously using a sauna 5-7 days a week for the past year and a half, I can confidently say it's one of the most underrated, simple, and easy things you can do for your body and health.

The Science-Backed Benefits of Sweating It Out

Before I dive into my personal journey with saunas, let's take a moment to appreciate what science has to say about this age-old practice. Research has shown that regular sauna use can provide numerous health benefits:

How I Found Health in a Hot Box

When I first started my sauna routine, I was skeptical. Could sitting in a hot room really make that much difference? Fast forward to today, and I'm a true believer. One of the most surprising changes I've noticed is the lightening of the really dark and thick skin ring around my iris - a key indicator in iridology that my body is healing and eliminating toxins more efficiently.

But the benefits don't stop there. My Fitbit has recorded a noticeable decrease in my resting heart rate and the amount of deep sleep I get, plus my skin has never looked better. In fact, I've been able to ditch body lotions and expensive face creams entirely, thanks to the natural glow that comes from regular sweat bathing.

As someone who lifts heavy weights, I've also been amazed at how much quicker my muscles recover after a good sauna session.

Making the Most of Your Sweat Session

My typical sauna visit happens right after my workout. I'll slip into the sauna wearing just a towel, allowing maximum skin exposure for optimal sweating. For the next 10-20 minutes, I use this time as a mini-retreat. Sometimes I'll read, other times I'll meditate, and yes, occasionally I'll scroll through my phone (they do work in there, surprisingly!).

I always make sure to clip up my hair to keep it from getting too sweaty, and I never forget my water bottle - hydration is key when you're deliberately dehydrating yourself! After the session, I head straight for the shower to wash away the toxins I've just sweated out.

One thing I've learned is the importance of listening to your body. If the temperature feels too high or breathing becomes difficult, it's okay to start with shorter sessions or lower temperatures. The goal is to sweat, not suffer.

Beyond the Sauna

While the sauna itself is a powerful tool, I've found that combining it with other healthy practices amplifies its benefits exponentially. A raw or high-raw fruit diet, for instance, complements the detoxifying effects of the sauna beautifully.

This synergy is something I've incorporated into my 6-week raw living food fitness challenge, where participants receive detailed meal plans that take the guesswork out of what to eat. The challenge also includes a daily health habit tracker, with sauna use as a key component. This structured approach ensures that sauna sessions become part of a holistic health routine, maximizing its benefits.

Whether you're using the sauna in the morning to energize for the day or in the evening to unwind, pairing it with nutrient-dense, raw foods can transform your wellness journey. By combining these practices, you're not just sweating in a sauna - you're embarking on a comprehensive path to better health.

A Powerful Tool Hiding in Plain Sight

One of the most shocking aspects of my sauna journey has been the realization of how underutilized this powerful health tool is. While the gym floor buzzes with activity, the sauna often sits empty. I'm particularly surprised by how few women take advantage of this transformative space.

Day after day, I watch people push themselves through intense workouts, yet never step foot in the sauna that could dramatically enhance their health outcomes. It's as if there's a secret superhero hideout in the gym that everyone's walking past.

Sometimes, I find myself going to the gym solely to use the sauna, knowing that this quiet, rejuvenating experience is doing more for my health than many realize. The sauna isn't just a luxury add-on to your gym routine; it's a powerful, yet oftentimes overlooked, tool that has the potential to revolutionize your health journey.

Your Turn to Turn Up the Heat

If you're intrigued by the idea of incorporating sauna use into your health routine, don't wait.

Here are some tips to get you started:

No Sauna? No Problem: The Hot Bath Alternative

Don't have access to a sauna? Don't let that stop you from reaping the benefits of a good sweat session. A hot bath can be an excellent alternative to get your daily dose of therapeutic heat. While it may not reach the same temperatures as a traditional sauna, a hot bath can still induce sweating and provide many similar benefits.

Aim for water temperatures between 100-104°F (38-40°C) and soak for 15-30 minutes. To enhance the experience, try adding Epsom salts or essential oils to your bath.

Remember, the goal is to get your body sweating every day, whether it's in a sauna, a hot bath, or even through intense exercise. Consistency is key – make daily sweating a non-negotiable part of your health routine, and you'll likely start noticing positive changes in your overall well-being.

Your Next Step to Optimal Health

Remember, the best time to use a sauna is whenever you can make it a regular part of your routine. Your body and mind will thank you for this unexpected health hack. So next time you're at the gym, why not cut your workout 10 minutes short and give the sauna a try? You might just discover your new favorite health habit.

But why stop there? If you're ready to take your health journey to the next level, consider joining my 6-week Living Food Fitness challenge. This comprehensive program not only incorporates daily sauna sessions into your routine but also provides you with detailed meal plans, workout guides, and a health habit tracker to keep you on course. It's the perfect way to amplify the benefits of your newfound sauna habit and transform your overall well being.

Ready to sweat, eat clean, and revolutionize your health?

Sign up for the challenge today by clicking on the picture below!

*cost goes up on Aug 1st, 2024*