Steam has been used since ancient times to enhance beauty and remain healthy. At La Bella é Famosa spa, we encourage our clients to schedule regular steam therapy services. Hippocrates believed that using steam to create an 'artificial fever' helped him to cure many illnesses. Indian sweat lodges, Japanese steam rooms, Turkish baths and Finnish saunas have been used throughout the world for centuries.
The most widely recognized benefit of steam therapy is immediate relaxation. Infusing customized herbs and essential oils into the vapour softens stress and loosens up muscles allowing for an unparalleled rejuvenation of the mind, body and spirit. The increased B-endorphins, which also result from exercise, contribute to a significant improvement in depression.
While steam is not a widely used therapy in the states, the Japanese incorporate steam in their treatment of many conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, nicotine addiction, mild depression, respiratory conditions, chronic pain, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. According to a study published in the American Journal of Medicine, steam bathing is safe, easily-tolerated and has therapeutic value for the majority of healthy people and also for patients with stable coronary heart disease.
An individual who is in moderate condition can sweat off 500 grams of sweat, which is equal to burning 475-600 calories. The water loss is replenished with hydration but the calories burned are not. In addition, fat cells do become water-soluble at 110 degrees which makes it possible to sweat out toxins, heavy metals and fats themselves.
During your Vapour experience ™, your heart will work harder in order to pump blood and boost circulation to cool your body. The increased metabolic rate is similar to those of exercise. After your service is complete, your body continues working to regulate internal temperature which results in continued cardiovascular conditioning.
The skin is our body's largest organ and is vital for the elimination of impurities. Skin pores open as we perspire and excessive sebum and toxins are released. Steam softens the superficial layer of skin so that new softer, hydrated skin can emerge. The result is clear skin, deeper penetration of skin care products, and plump skin cells which make fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable. The emulsification of fat in the sebaceous glands helps to clear them of sebum and bacteria which makes steam and excellent acne therapy.
Over the past several decades we have been enlightened by the fact that our bodies hold onto many toxins including herbicides, pesticides, food additives and chemicals. Absent detoxification, these toxins can slow down metabolism, create hormonal imbalances and result in an internal environment that supports chronic disease. Studies show that typically there are between 400-800 chemical residues stored in our fat cells. Intense detoxification can become a necessity once our bodies are unable to excrete these acquired toxins.
Steam therapy stimulates the chemical processes of cells while also opening the pores. Millions of sweat glands can begin excreting the excessive accumulated waste. Maintaining this regimen can support your health efforts to rid your body of metals including mercury, lead, cadmium and zinc while also reducing the amount of sulfuric acid, cholesterol, nicotine and alcohol present. By incorporating a Vapor experience into your routine, you may induce weight loss, pain relief, increase energy, improve alertness and boost your immunity. Clients who schedule a steam service at the first sign of a cold or flu can help ward off the manifestation of actual symptoms.