6 Benefits of a Steam Shower
Humans have enjoyed steam Steam Shower bathing for thousands of years. What was once considered a social endeavor and religious practice is now a way to enrich body and soul and make one feel and look better, healthier, and happier. By adding a spa quality shower to your home, you can enjoy several essential steam shower benefits on a regular basis.
Here are six ways taking a steam shower beats a traditional shower any day (or night) of the week.
Benefits of a Steam Shower
Helpful Tip: For an optimal steam shower experience, keep the temperature set between 110 and 116°F.
1. Reduced Stress
Whether it’s from financial strain, pressure at work, or relationship issues, stress can wreak havoc on the body and mind. Headaches, sleep problems, muscle tension, chest pain, and fatigue are just some of the ways stress impacts us. The good news? The steam produced from a steam shower has stress-relieving effects. A steam shower can reduce cortisol, a stress hormone that fluctuates depending on a body’s stress levels. While a steam shower may not completely eliminate stress, it can provide some much-need relief. You can also add aroma or music therapy for added stress and tension relief.
2. Improved Circulation
Heart disease – the leading cause of death in the United States – kills more than 600,000 people each year. Which is why protecting your cardiovascular health is critical. A simple steam shower can help improve circulation, and therefore heart health, by boosting blood flow throughout the body. It is believed that moist heat can also decrease blood pressure, a risk factor for developing heart disease. Always discuss any health concerns with your doctor first.
3. Improved Breathing
A steam shower can help relieve cold and flu symptoms and calm allergies by opening up nasal passages, quieting coughs, and reducing body aches. In addition to helping you breathe easier, a steam shower promotes sinus drainage, loosens bronchial secretion, and soothes a sore throat.
4. Healthy Skin
Think you have to go to a spa for a relaxing facial? Think again. The steam from a shower opens up facial pores to release clogged dirt and oils, lubricates the skin, hydrates, and may even relieve acne-like conditions. Limit your steam shower to a maximum of 20 minutes to prevent dehydration and be sure to cool off gradually and drink plenty of water afterwards.
5. Better Sleep
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than a third of American adults aren’t getting adequate sleep each night. Chronic sleep deprivation can put you at increased risk of diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Steam showering or bathing is one way to facilitate a restful night’s sleep. Warm water stimulates blood flow to the hands and feet, allowing body heat to escape more quickly and helping us to fall asleep faster. In snorers, steam promotes decongestion which helps them (and their partners!) sleep more soundly.
6. Improved Athletic Performance
If you suffer from muscle pain or soreness, you will enjoy the muscle-soothing benefits of a steam shower. Warm steam loosens up stiff or sore muscles and helps them recover after strenuous use. Steam also helps break down lactic acid (a chemical the body produces when cells break down carbohydrates for energy), boosts metabolism, and as mentioned earlier, promotes blood circulation.
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