subject: Enjoy The Benefits Of A Steam Shower [print this page] Steam showers have considerable mental and physical benefits following a workout. These benefits include stress reduction, a clearer complexion, increased metabolism, pain relief, and muscle relaxation.
Stress Reduction
A great workout does provide some stress reduction, taking a steam shower following a workout will often provide more stress relief. It is known that a steam shower will help to soothe the body and quiet the mind. Following a workout, a person's tired muscles are relaxed by the moist warm, steam shower. The body's circulation is increased and the stress of the workout is released from the body.
Relaxation of Muscles
Stress reduction and muscle relaxation often occur at the same time. Following a workout, the muscles are sore, tight, and tired. Much the same as with the reduction of stress, the warm and moist air increases the circulation and as a result the muscles to release the toxins and lactic that are trapped in the blood by a workout. This release of toxins and lactic acid will also help reduce the soreness that is felt the next day. Stiffness of the joints is also eased in a steam shower.
Immune and Metabolism System Increase
Because the circulation and heart rate is increased, it helps in keeping the effects of workouts active such that the metabolism continues to increase. Steam showers also induce a healthy state of hyperthermia, which is the raising of the body's internal temperature beyond 98.6 degrees. While the body experiences hyperthermia, organisms which are harmful, like bacteria and viruses can't live as a result of the increased temperature of the body.
Relief of Pain
The heat and moisture of a steam shower following a workout will help to relieve pain. This pain may be present after and before a workout. A steam shower achieves pain relief by means of muscle relaxation. Pain relief that is long lasting is normally achieved through the relaxation of the deep muscles. Initial muscle relaxation will reduce the tightness and pain after a workout.
Complexion Enhancement
The heat and moisture of a steam shower will help to clean the pores of dirt, oil, and sweat that have built up during a workout. This heat melts the dirt, oil, and sweat simultaneously with the opening of the pores such that the moisture pushes out the toxins of the pores. A steam shower also increases blood flow and circulation to the skin and face which then stimulates the process of healing.