Saunas

Say the word "sauna" and a picture of some exotic hut near the Arctic Circle filled with toweled Finns basking in the extreme heat may come to mind. But the sauna has been around for over two thousand years and is not just for people in cold climates looking for a little warmth. Today there are a number of choices for those looking for a healthy, relaxing experience. Yes, the sauna is actually very healthy for you, with a number of benefits, including raising your metabolism.

Sauna advocates claim

• Increased metabolism (translate into more body fat burning — even 300 calories worth)
  
• Higher pulse rate from 50 to 75%
  
• Increased circulation and more flexible blood vessels
  
• Muscle relaxation due to your blood cells whipping around your system
  
• Skin cleansing, as your pores are more open