Those who bathe saunas are happier than others, it shows a new study from our partner Luleå University of Technology. We have had the pleasure of interviewing Åsa Engström, a researcher at Luleå University of Technology and one of Sweden's foremost experts on a sauna and its health effects. Her latest study, conducted in northern Sweden, shows that sauna is not only a traditional relaxation but also has significant positive effects on both mental and physical health. The study included over 1180 participants and illustrates how sauna can improve well -being, reduce stress and give us more energy in everyday life.

Key results from the study

Sauna bars are healthier

66 % of the participants were defined as sauna bars (sauna at least once a month).

They were on average younger (51.1 years compared to 55.1 years for non-bast subadents).

Sauna bars smoked less and had a lower occurrence of high blood pressure.

Mental health and well -being

Sauna bars reported lower levels of anxiety and mild depression.

Participants who sailed 1-4 times a month or 2-7 times a week experienced significantly higher levels of mental health and energy.

However, higher frequency than 1-4 times a month did not provide further improvements in mental health or energy.

Happiness and quality of life

Sauna bars reported higher levels of happiness and energy than those that did not be basted.

Interestingly, the study showed that happiness was at its highest in those who basted 1-4 times a month, compared to those who basted more or more rarely.

Better sleep and less pain

Sauna bars were more satisfied with their sleep patterns.

A global survey showed that 83.5% of respondents reported improved sleep after being basted

Social aspects - an important part of the experience

Åsa mentions that a majority of the sauna bars in the study preferred to best with others, which strengthens the role of the sauna as a social activity. This confirms previous research showing that sauna baths often act as a place for relaxation and community.

Although cold bath combined with a sauna was reported by a minority, social interaction is a central motivation for many sauna bars. It also emphasizes how a sauna is strengthening both physical and psychological bands. 

How long do you have to best to experience the benefits?

Most participants in the study spent 15-20 minutes in the sauna, often distributed over 1-2 rounds, with a temperature of between 60 and 90 ° C. But on the answer if you need to bast several times a week to experience positive effects, you saw an interesting result. The study showed that happiness was at its highest in those who basted 1-4 times a month, compared to those who basted more or more rarely 

How to take advantage of the benefits of the sauna

The results of the study are clear: Basta regularly, even as little as 1-4 times a month, can have a positive impact on both body and soul. For people who are unable to maintain a high level of physical activity, sauna baths can serve as an effective complement to strengthening well -being.

How do Åsa Engström basted?

Åsa Johansson, the researcher behind the study, is himself a dedicated sauna biker and describes how the sauna in the cottage is one of her favorite places. The mainly positive effects Åsa experience are: 

Relaxation and recovery: The sauna helps Åsa stress down and give her time for reflection.

Improved sleep: After a sauna evening she always sleeps better 

"That Basta gives me a kind of calm and well -being. This is where I unwind after a long day" says Åsa Engström.

For those who are curious to learn more about the results or want to read the entire study, you can find it here.