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SAUNA AND STEAM BATH HYDROTHERAPY
Using water to help heal the body and soothe the soul is a practice dating as far back as 4000 B.C., a time when hydrotherapy meant a visit to the public Roman baths.
Today, you can reap the benefits of steam baths in your own home, and saunas are a standard offering in most health clubs. Any temperature-controlled room of 122°F which has air that is saturated with steam can be considered a steam bath.
A sauna, on the other hand, works on the principle of hot, dry air's healing effect. Water is poured over heated stones to create a "dry" steam, with the temperature of the sealed, wood-lined room often rising above 100°F.
Both saunas and steam baths are more than very relaxing. They are curative, as well. A sauna is believed to be a powerful ally in treating allergies, sinus problems and cold. A sauna or steam bath can also help to soothe pain in the joints. In addition, they stimulate the sweat glands; this process helps to boost the body's natural defenses.
MoonDragon's Health Therapy: Steam Inhalation Therapy
SAUNA & STEAM BATH TREATMENT
The time spent in either a stream bath or sauna should be no more than 15 to 20 minutes. However, a shower beforehand and a cooling down and rest period after are advisable, so the entire process can last up to one hour. Try to take steam baths and saunas twice weekly.
Steam baths and saunas are used to combat fatigue, treat poor circulation. sinus congestion, respiratory conditions such as asthma, coughs or bronchitis, treat muscle tension caused by exercise and joint pain, helpful for relieving stress, relieves symptoms of colds, flu or allergies and strengthens a weakened immune system.
THE EFFECTS OF SAUNAS & STEAM BATHS
Exposure to steam heat both activates the sweat glands and raises the body's temperature, two processes that can help the body heal. Raising the body temperature increases white blood cells and makes them more active in preventing infection. Sweating, in turn, purges harmful toxins from your system.
Extra Tip - Saunas and steam baths work wonders on the complexion by opening pores and adding moisture. steaming your face once a week will help prevent blemishes and give you a healthy glow.
STEAMING WITH OILS
By putting a few drops of an essential oil or blend of oils onto a cotton ball or cloth and placing it in the sauna, you can intensify the medicinal benefits. Certain essential oils, such as Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Hyssop, are often used to combat colds.
AROMATHERAPY RECOMMENDATION
EUCALYPTUS ESSENTIAL OIL: This oil acts as an analgesic, antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant, and so much more. Eucalyptus oil is toxic to bacteria that cause colds and sinus conditions. Eucalyptus is a exhilarating, clarifying oil that rejuvenates and refreshes the body and mind. It can help weakness, headaches and fatigue. The fragrance is woody, sweet and pungent at the same time.
PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL: Peppermint is a very good analgesic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and more. This pale liquid is very strong and blends well with other oils. It is also refreshing and rejuvenating and smells great when you use it for steam inhalation.
ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL: Rosemary is an herbaceous oil that is very aromatic for steaming. Rosemary is an analgesic, antiseptic, stimulant, antimicrobial and more.
HYSSOP ESSENTIAL OIL: Hyssop is an antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, cephalic, cicatrizant, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hypertensive, nervine, sedative, sudorific, tonic (heart and circulation), vermifuge, and vulnerary.
ESSENTIAL OIL RECOMMENDATIONS BY AILMENT
FOR BREATHING DIFFICULTIES: Add Cedarwood, Eucalyptus or Pine.
FOR BRONCHITIS: Add Basil, Benzoin, Cedarwood, Clove, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Pine, Sandalwood, Rosemary, Tea Tree Oil, and Thyme.
FOR COLDS: Use Bay, Black Pepper, Clove, Ginger, Myrrh, Orange, Pine, Rosemary or Tea Tree.
FOR COUGHS: Use Benzoin, Black Pepper, Cardamom, Cedarwood, Frankincense, Peppermint, Rosemary or Cypress.
FOR SINUS: Add Basil, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Peppermint or Marjoram.
APPLICATIONS
SAUNA
1. Shower thoroughly and dry off.
2. Remain in the sauna no more than 15 to 20 minutes. Wipe your face frequently with a cool cloth to hydrate your skin and avoid overheating.
3. After a sauna, take a 5 minute "air bath" in the fresh air or in a room with the windows open.
4. Cool down with a cold shower.
5. Compensate for loss of fluids and electrolytes by drinking water or fruit juice. Refrain from drinking alcohol.
6. Try to rest for at least 30 minutes following the treatment.
STEAM BATH
1. Shower thoroughly and dry off.
2. If you have access to a pre-warming room, with dry air and a temperature of 140°F, remain in it until you are warmed through.
3. Stay in the steam room for 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Follow with a 5 minute "air bath".
5. Cool down with a cool shower.
6. Try to rest for at least 30 minutes.
Note: Turn your shower into a steam bath by turning on the hot water in your shower on full force, closing the bathroom door and filling the room with steam. Steam vaporizers are very healing.
TAKE CARE!
Saunas and steam baths tax the heart and circulatory system. Before taking a sauna or a steam bath, consult with your health care provider if you are elderly or have any of the following conditions:
- Inflammatory Heart Disease.
- High Blood Pressure.
- Multiple Sclerosis.
- Inflammation of the Liver or Kidneys.
- Acute Inflammatory Joint Disease.
- Epilepsy.
- Diabetes.
If you are sensitive to extreme temperature changes, do not use a sauna or steam bath. (Personally, I tend get dizzy, nauseated and faint easily when exposed to hot temperatures including hot baths or showers. And with my asthma, I find steamy humid air aggravates my breathing - so I am not a good candidate for steam baths or saunas.)
If you have any concerns or health issues, consult with your health care provider before using this type of therapy. Do NOT take a steam bath or sauna if you are pregnant. If you have questions about your particular situation, contact your midwife.
The therapeutic benefits of saunas and steam baths have long been recognized by traditional health care providers to support treatment of conditions such as poor circulation and joint pain.
HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
HERBS, OILS, & SUPPLIES
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
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