The first step occurs exclusively in a sauna. During this step in the thermal cycle, your pores open. This is how heat is stored and toxins are expelled. In the sauna, your body’s internal temperature rises by about 1°C, and
The first step occurs exclusively in a sauna. During this step in the thermal cycle, your pores open. This is how heat is stored and toxins are expelled. In the sauna, your body’s internal temperature rises by about 1°C, and your skin’s temperature rises by about 10°C. You find yourself in a state of hyperthermia. You are eliminating toxins and cleansing yourself completely. The “waste” expelled with the sweat comes not only from the skin and muscles, but also from the metabolic activity of your organs. This perspiration acts as a deep-cleansing agent for the body.
In these mild “fever” conditions, your body reacts by strengthening your immune system and building up your defences. Integrating the thermal cycle into your routine provides you with additional protection. At this stage, your body handles the heat by sweating out water. Sweating cleanses your body from the inside out by eliminating the toxins that have built up over time. Toxins impede proper functioning, which may contribute to ageing.
To follow the steps of the thermal cycle and to reap the most benefit, it is essential to cool your body down after the intense heat of the sauna. The transition from hot to cold produces a thermal shock, which closes your pores and releases adrenaline, a hormone that stimulates the body. This hormone is usually secreted in response to stress. It is a response to your body’s need for energy which is why you feel energized and alive like never before after immersing yourself in cold water!
You will soon realize that this step is the most surprising! Although some people hesitate to try it, this is a critical part of the thermal cycle. It can be hard to understand how such cold water can contribute to your well-being. But you will never comprehend it until you try it.
The third and final step of the thermal cycle is critical: 20 minutes of relaxation. You absolutely must not skip this step. You can do it in a variety of ways: in a relaxation pavilion around a fire or in a hammock. Regardless of the option you choose, the key element is to take 20 minutes to completely relax before beginning a new thermal cycle.
After the thermal shock, resting allows you to expel the adrenaline in your body to make way for endorphins, also known as the “feel-good hormones”. They create a feeling of well-being and even euphoria. Your entire body will feel fully rested. You will dive headfirst into a state of unparalleled relaxation.
By repeating the hot-cold-rest thermal cycle three times, your body will shed all of its toxins. You will be overcome by a profound sense of well-being. This is when you will truly understand the benefits of thermotherapy on your mind and body.