The Health Benefits of Sauna

Research from large Finnish cohorts has associated regular sauna use with improved cardiovascular health, relaxation, and general well-being. At Ridge Crest Saunas, we translate these insights into custom, non-toxic sauna builds tailored to your home.

Get a Free Custom Quote View Our Work

What the Finnish Studies Suggest

Peer-reviewed observational studies following Finnish adults over time have reported associations between more frequent sauna use and markers of heart health and longevity. While these studies cannot prove causation, their scale and duration make the findings compelling.

Cardiovascular Support

Regular heat sessions have been associated with a lower risk of fatal cardiovascular events and may support healthy blood pressure and endothelial function.

Relaxation and Recovery

Heat exposure can promote relaxation, perceived stress reduction, and post-activity recovery when paired with hydration and sensible protocols.

Cognitive Health

Finnish cohort research has reported associations between more frequent sauna use and a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease over follow-up. These are observational findings and not medical advice.

Heat Adaptation

Routine use encourages gentle heat adaptation which many users find supports a sense of well-being. Always consult your clinician for personal guidance.

Note: Findings are based on population-level observation and good practice guidance; they are not medical advice. Individual results vary.

How Ridge Crest Saunas Aligns with Best Practices

Custom Design for Comfort

We size benches, select wood species, and plan ventilation for comfortable heat sessions that you look forward to and can repeat.

Non-Toxic Materials

Zero VOCs, organic materials, Rock Wool insulation, and cedar options help ensure the air you breathe remains clean while heating.

Traditional or Infrared

We build to your preference and space—traditional, infrared, or hybrid—so your routine fits your goals and lifestyle.

Practical Guidance

We provide setup and care guidance. Discuss session length, temperature, and hydration with your clinician for your specific needs.

Common Questions

Is sauna use safe for everyone?

Not necessarily. People with certain medical conditions or who are pregnant should consult their clinician before heat exposure.

How often should I use a sauna?

Finnish cohorts often reported benefits with several sessions per week. Start gradually and find a comfortable routine with medical guidance.

Why focus on non-toxic materials?

Heat can amplify odors and off-gassing. Using low/zero-VOC and organic components helps preserve air quality inside the sauna.

References

Laukkanen JA, Kunutsor SK, Zaccardi F, Lee E, Willeit P, Khan H, Laukkanen T. Sauna bathing and cardiovascular mortality and morbidity: a population-based prospective cohort study. JAMA Internal Medicine. 2015;175(4):542-548. DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2014.8187. View
Laukkanen T, Kunutsor SK, Kauhanen J, Laukkanen JA. Sauna bathing is inversely associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in middle-aged Finnish men. Age and Ageing. 2017;46(2):245-249. DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afw212. View
Kunutsor SK, Khan H, Zaccardi F, Laukkanen JA. Association of sauna bathing with cardiovascular and all-cause mortality among men and women: a prospective cohort study. Annals of Medicine. 2018;50(2):139-146. DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2018.1432111. View

These links go to publisher pages. Access may require subscriptions. Findings are observational and not medical advice.