Saunas, Science & Sleep: How ‘Löyly’ Can Promote Better Rest

There’s an app for just about everything these days. But in an age where technology keeps driving us forwards, we think (in the pursuit of better sleep, at least) it’s about time we looked back.

If you’ve read our article on the history of saunas, you’ll know that the Finns have been benefitting from the effects of saunas for thousands of years. Today, as sleep deprivation is epidemic, the restorative effects of a traditional Finnish sauna could be just the tonic.

There are a few fundamental facts about the way saunas work that allow them to promote such a thing, which are both simple but fascinating. For starters, when you step into a sauna, your core body temperature rises. Then, when you leave, it drops again. Inadvertently, this mimics the body’s natural pre-sleep cooling process, which encourages gentle, comfortable sleep. This is a sleep that you will achieve faster, more easily and that will last for longer too.

Two of the most common causes of insomnia are stress and anxiety. Thankfully, saunas promote the release of endorphins, which can assist in the reduction of these symptoms. That is, not only will your sleep be better overall, but the act of falling asleep will be calmer and more meditative. It’s simply incredible.

We wax lyrical about traditional Finnish saunas versus more modern alternatives. We believe that löyly — the steam that rises from the hot stones above a wood burner — is moist, soft, gentle and extraordinarily easy to breathe. As well as the muscle relaxing effect that saunas are famous for, this specific type of steam can help to clear out the airways and improve circulation. With enough mindful sauna practice, much of the discomfort that might usually prevent you from falling into a deep, rejuvenating slumber can just melt away.

And you won’t get that with a white noise app!

To chat with Finnished about your sauna project — and to seek a good night’s sleep — simply reach out for a free, no-obligation chat. We’re quite friendly, we promise.

Warmly,

Team Finnished