“

Sauna bathing is a popular practice in northern Sweden that has been linked to several health benefits, according to a recent study published in the International Journal of Circumpolar Health. Unlike previous research on saunas, which has primarily focused on Finnish populations, this study sought to understand how regular sauna use impacts physical and mental health in the context of northern Sweden’s culture.

The study, led by Åsa Engström, a professor at Luleå University of Technology, analyzed data from the 2022 Northern Sweden MONICA study. This survey included a random sample of 1,180 adults from Norrbotten and Västerbotten counties, of which 66% reported sauna bathing at least once a month.

Participants in the study answered questions about their sauna habits, including frequency, duration, temperature, and whether they bathed alone or with others. They also provided information on their lifestyle habits, mental well-being, and overall health status.

Results from the study revealed several significant differences between regular sauna users and non-users. Sauna bathers were generally younger, more physically active, and less likely to smoke. They also reported better overall health, lower rates of high blood pressure, and less physical pain compared to non-sauna bathers.

In terms of mental health, sauna users reported lower levels of anxiety and depression, higher energy levels, and greater happiness. Interestingly, the study found that the most noticeable benefits were seen among those who sauna bathed one to four times per month, with more frequent use not necessarily leading to additional improvements.

Most sauna users in the study followed typical sauna routines, with sessions lasting 15 to 20 minutes at temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Celsius. Electric saunas were the most common type used, and most people bathed with others rather than alone.

One of the key findings of the study was that the association between sauna use and better health was not significantly related to socioeconomic status. Sauna users and non-users did not differ in terms of education, income, or living conditions, suggesting that the health benefits observed were not solely due to financial resources.

While the results of the study support previous research indicating the health benefits of sauna use, the researchers caution that there are limitations to the study design. The cross-sectional nature of the data makes it challenging to determine whether sauna use directly causes better health outcomes or if healthier individuals are simply more inclined to use saunas.

Looking ahead, Engström and her team plan to further analyze the data from the MONICA study to gain a deeper understanding of the health effects of sauna bathing and the factors that influence these outcomes. They are also conducting interviews with individuals to explore not only sauna bathing but also cold baths and winter bathing.

Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the health benefits of sauna bathing in northern Sweden and suggests that regular sauna use may contribute to improved physical and mental well-being.