The soothing heat of a sauna combined with the peaceful practice of meditation makes for an incredible wellness experience. This type of mindful relaxation promotes stress reduction and can even improve sleep and elevate mood over time.
It’s best to meditate in the sauna for short sessions at first and then gradually increase the length as you become accustomed to the heat. You should also be sure to hydrate properly beforehand.
Sit erect but not rigidly on the bench, letting your body relax. Close your eyes and focus on the feel of your breathing. If the hot air stings your nostrils, try breathing through the mouth to avoid this discomfort.
Breathe deeply and let the calming scents of the sauna fill your senses. You can add aromatherapy to your sauna session by drizzling in a few drops of essential oils (lavender is a popular choice) to create a sense of tranquility.
As your thoughts and distractions begin to arise, gently redirect them back to your breath. Allow yourself to relax your muscles and imagine tension leaving with each drop of sweat.
Whether you’re a busy mom juggling responsibilities, an ambitious professional trying to make the grade, or a stressed college student preparing for finals, a few minutes of sauna meditation can help restore balance and calm. If you need some extra help relaxing and focusing, try a guided meditation or a mindfulness app.
