Benefits

Participating in the Aufguss ritual makes it very possible to enjoy the countless benefits associated with the sauna. Below, we list some of them.

Let's start with the positive effects of heat, which first gives us a feeling of well-being due to the increase in endorphins, then releases any muscular tension. In addition, in the case of regular attendance, it regulates the pressure and the narrowing and subsequent dilation of the blood vessels due to the cold/heat contrast is a considerable workout for the fibres of the arterial walls.

It should also be noted that, due to a natural reaction to the increase in ambient temperature, one begins to sweat (during the Aufguss, compared to the traditional sauna, this happens earlier), so it is important to consider that one can lose up to one and a half litres of water and thus eliminate from the body the toxins that accumulate in the day-to-day life.

Another aspect of the sauna and in particular of the Aufguss is the use of essential oils, which are an extremely complex and interesting material (aromatherapy). Bearing in mind the purpose of our site and the breadth of the subject, let us now briefly look at what they are and how they can help us.

Essential oils are the aromatic and volatile constituents of plants, containing substances with very active properties on our physiology. Some experts claim that they contain the entire life force of the plant.

The truth is that thanks to them, plants attract pollinating insects and can defend themselves against predators, bacteria, viruses and fungi. Essential oils can be extracted from all parts of the plant and have different effects on humans, depending on the area of the plant of origin, the note of the essential oil is identified, which usually transmits its characteristics:

Oils characterised by the base note are extracted from roots, stems, wood and resins. They are usually oils of low volatility with an intense and persistent aroma over time, act mainly on the body and often have calming, rebalancing and balsamic effects. For example, base oils are: pine, frankincense, cypress, sandalwood, vetiver.

Essential oils mainly from the heart are extracted from leaves and some flowers (although some plants such as peppermint or eucalyptus give rise to head essences). They are oils of medium volatility that act mainly on an emotional level, with harmonising and sensual effects.

They are often the most precious and expensive oils also because of the enormous amount of flowers needed to produce them (1 ml of pure Damask Rose 100% essential oil can cost at 2014 prices even between 30 and 50 euros, depending on the quality). These are, for example, the heart oils: Rose, Jasmine, Chamomile, Neroli, Lavender.

Essential oils are extracted from the fruits, characterised by their top notes, which are the most volatile and refreshing, often acting on a spiritual and mental level. They have a very strong and intense effect and fragrance, which, on the other hand, wear out in a short time. These are, for example, head oils: Orange, Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Lemon, Mint.

It is of utmost importance to use natural, pure 100% oils, preferably obtained from organic cultivation. In fact, fractionated or reconstructed oils do not contain the complex mixture of active principles of the plant, resulting in a less balanced oil, certainly less effective and which can provoke an allergic reaction in our organism.

As we have seen, the Aufguss brings with it a number of benefits, usable at any age. however, it is important to underline that during a steam jet there is also a strong stress that the heat gives to our body. The effect of the heat is a decrease in pressure and a particularly intense increase in the heartbeat, comparable to an average sporting activity, even if carried out "at rest" (i.e. without real physical exertion).

The cooling phase produces the opposite effect, a decrease in heart rate and a corresponding increase in blood pressure.
This "workout" of our cardiovascular system is largely beneficial, but it is important to keep in mind a few factors when participating in an afgus:

  • in the presence of pathologies (of any kind, but in particular cardiac) or in case of high/low blood pressure, consult your doctor before undergoing intense sauna sessions.

  • avoid sudden, jerky movements at the end of the Aufguss, which could lead to a further drop in pressure and subsequent fainting.

  • avoid entering the sauna under the influence of alcohol or drugs (which limit the effectiveness of our thermoregulatory mechanisms).

  • avoid endurance competitions or excessive exertion, if you feel the need to get out of the sauna, DO IT without hesitation or fear of disturbing the shot, even the augussmeister will thank you for it;

  • adequately replenish fluids lost through sweating;

  • always perform thorough cool-down cycles after an Aufguss, preferably with a progressive cool-down. If you like a cold shower or bath, always start with the feet and legs and work your way up, leaving the head and heart for last.

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