Three related 2026 studies from UK researchers (including University of Oxford and University of Greenwich) showed that regular sauna use was linked to improved physical and mental wellbeing in UK users. Weekly sauna use—but not monthly—predicted higher physical wellbeing, while monthly use was linked to higher mental wellbeing, weekly sessions showed a bigger impact. Key finding: the social connection and ritual aspects of sauna-going may be as “medicinal” as the heat, as wellbeing improved via feelings of belonging, which was significantly associated with improved physical and mental health. The researchers stressed the potential implications for sauna operators globally.
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