The Psychology of Sauna: Introspection, Transformation, and Human Connection
(This article was originally published in Sauna Times by Stephen A. Colmant, Ph.D., MA, Prescribing Psychologist.)
We hear about the physiological benefits of sauna almost daily and still very little attention is given to its psychological effects. Sauna may be psychologically powerful through its influence on mood and cognition, promotion of introspection, ritual structure, and effects on group dynamics. These features of the sauna experience remain under-appreciated and underutilized.
Sauna provides an effective environment for individual reflection and emotional processing. It can also serve as a productive setting for group work, including psychotherapy groups, support groups, psychoeducational groups, and personal development groups. In addition, sauna may function as a meaningful structure for marking transitions, commitments, and the beginning or completion of a therapeutic or developmental process.
What I hope to do here is succinctly describe what I see as the most salient psychological features and therapeutic potential of the sauna experience.
- Sauna puts people in a state of readiness for change
Two things that go on when you are exercising is that you develop a positive feeling state and you are maintaining thoughts characterized by positive coping. That is a nice state to be in if you want to engage in problem solving and creativity. As a psychologist working with a patient, that’s going to make my job a lot easier. Sauna is a form of physical exercise and we find similar effects. People commonly feel more upbeat, revitalized and relaxed by sauna. Sauna also results in positive cognitions reflecting strength, persistence and sense of accomplishment. Get a person in a positive emotional state of improved mood and attitude and you have a real opportunity to start making some goals and plans.
- Insight through Introspection
Sauna promotes insight through multiple pathways. Click through to Sauna Times to read more from Stephen A. Colmant, Ph.D., MA, Prescribing Psychologist
