Steam Showers: Save Water, Ease Stress | Care2 Healthy & Green Living

by Linda Merrill for Networx

Steam showers are the modern day equivalent of the steam baths of ancient Rome and the traditional Finnish saunas.  Historically, wet steam baths have been used for cleansing, relaxation, detoxification and as a social activity. In Scandinavia and the Baltics, saunas and steam baths were often family activities. In fact, most cultures have a tradition of some kind of steam room, including Native American huts and Japanese mishiburo, dating to the 12th century. Warm, moist air opens the pores, increases blood pressure and stimulates the sweat glands. Hot steam relaxes muscles after a workout and opens bronchial passages in asthma sufferers. It cleans the skin of impurities through the pores and can be more beneficial and less aging than soap and water. Hot steam is even said to improve the immune system because it tricks the body into thinking it has a fever and therefore stimulates the body’s natural defenses.

Nearly anyone can partake of a steam shower, although there are some groups of people who should refrain or seek the opinion of their medical provider. Those include people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or circulatory problems. It is advised that young children and pregnant women also refrain from taking a steam. When in doubt, consult a medical professional. [...]

Full article at care2.com

 

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