In some parts of the world sauna bathing is a daily activity.

In Finland, it would even be rude to deny an invitation to get hot and sweaty with a business associate.

As well as being culturally significant, the sauna has many touted health benefits – from protecting against cardiovascular disease, to fending off cognitive decline.

Norman and Tegan sort through the evidence.

References

• The multifaceted benefits of passive heat therapies for extending the healthspan: A comprehensive review with a focus on Finnish sauna
• Association Between Sauna Bathing and Fatal Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality Events
• Cardiovascular and Other Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing: A Review of the Evidence