Development of safe and individualized sauna protocols
Saunas are more than just a place to sweat: In cooperation with the Swiss company Küng, evidence-based health protocols are being developed to promote sauna experiences - secure, personalized, and scientifically well-founded.
Factsheet
- Schools involved School of Health Professions
- Institute(s) Physiotherapy
- Research unit(s) Pain, Stress, and Thermoregulation
- Funding organisation Others
- Duration (planned) 01.07.2025 - 01.02.2026
- Head of project Dr. Kay Hanusch
- Partner Küng Wellness AG
- Keywords Sauna, health promotion, regeneration, heart health, immune system, stress regulation, mood improvement, sleep quality
Situation
The use of saunas is a widespread practice with deep cultural roots, especially in the Nordic countries. The sauna is not only a tool for promoting health, but also a social space. In Finland, for example, it is an integral part of daily life and is used in both private and public contexts. Similar practices exist in other cultures, such as the russian Banya, the turkish Hammam, and the japanese Onsen. In scientific literature, saunas are increasingly being studied as a potentially health-promoting intervention. Their focus is on cardiac health, resilience of the immune system, regeneration after physical efforts, stress regulation, mood enhancement, and sleep quality. Despite its numerous positive effects, the sauna is not suitable for everyone. People with unstable angina pectoris (heart-related chest tightness), severe aortic stenosis (constriction of the aorta), or acute infections should refrain from using the sauna.
Course of action
In collaboration with Küng, a Swiss company that manufactures customized saunas, protocols for various health-promoting interventions are being developed. A systematic literature review is being conducted to scientifically evaluate the health benefits of sauna use. These findings form the basis for the protocols that will be implemented in Küng's sauna programs. In addition, the current status of side effects and risks are being recorded in order to provide future customers with a safe and healthy sauna experience.
