In many civilizations, different traditions have developed where heated rooms are used for healing, spiritual renewal, childbirth, and rites of passage. Today, saunas are used as places to relax, socialize, and take care of one’s body. The heat provided by a sauna affects your circulatory system, immune system, and the body’s natural detoxification process. For example, during a 15 – 30 minute sauna your heart rate can increase by 50% – 75%. This is a heart rate that is equivalent to that of a person during a brisk walk. Heating the body also has a small effect on blood pressure; blood vessels expand to accommodate the change in temperature and increased blood flow. This results in blood vessels becoming more flexible, which can lead to increased circulation and can help normalize blood pressure. Blood flow to the skin also increases in this process, which brings more oxygen and nutrients to surface tissues. The heating of the body also induces sweating which uses the body’s detoxifying capacity to open pores in the skin and flush impurities out. The increase in body heat also stimulates the immune system response, increasing the production of disease fighting white blood cells and antibodies. Many sauna users report that their sauna provides them with: relief of cold, flu, and allergy symptoms; improved respiratory function; and a feeling of overall wellbeing.