3 Years Of Sauna. Here’s what I’ve learnt:

For over three years now, I’ve been sitting in the sauna three or four times a week. What started as a way to unwind after training has become one of the most consistent habits in my life.

There’s real substance behind why it feels so good. Regular sauna use is linked to better heart health, and some studies have found sauna users tend to live longer, healthier lives. It’s a rare kind of self-care that asks almost nothing of you, just time and heat.

As a runner, what interests me most is the endurance side. Spend enough time in the heat and your body starts adapting the way it would during high altitude training, producing more blood plasma and getting more efficient at delivering oxygen. It’s often called heat acclimation, and I notice that my legs feel less beaten up after long runs than they used to.

Then there’s the mental benefit. No phone, no distractions, just heat and quiet. Most people who use sauna regularly say relaxation is the main reason they keep coming back, and after three years, I understand exactly why.

If you’re curious about starting, ease into it. Start with shorter sessions and stay well hydrated. Your heart, your legs, and your head will all notice the difference.