Physically, your body produces sweat in order to cool off when hot. However, in many cultures (Native American, Swedish, Indian Ayurvedic, etc.), sweating is seen as a method that your body uses to eliminate waste and as a sign of purification. The theory (though not scientifically accepted) is that sweat carries infections, toxins, metals, and blockages from internal systems and organs in your body, and secretes them through your skin. Increased body temperature brings about an artificial fever, and some claim that sweating can result in boosted immune system function, increased white blood cell production, raised metabolism and increased heart rate and circulation.
Sweating can be helpful for addicts who are interested in ridding the body of chemicals. Some drugs can linger in your system for a maximum of 6 months, so this practice is useful at any point in recovery. Along with this, many believe that toxins settle into fat cells underneath the skin’s surface; sweating is the closest and most efficient exit point for these toxins. This information isn’t meant to take the place of actual medical advice or an addiction treatment plan, but to improve your alternative therapy experience.
If you aren’t used to it, your body will need to slowly adjust to removing toxins through the skin (also elsewhere), and sweating. Many people do not sweat easily and can unintentionally overheat if they begin an aggressive sweating regimen.
- Begin your regimen once or twice a week, but only for 10 to 15 minutes maximum! As you grow more comfortable, increase the time and frequency of use.
- Be careful not to overexert yourself with the frequency of sweat sessions, or the amount of time spent sweating.
- Even if you believe you’re in perfect physical condition, limit the amount of time you sweat to only 20 to 50 minutes. One hour max!
- Listen to your body.
- Sweat at least once a week for therapy.
- For the best results, sweat once or twice every day.
Drink eight ounces of water, at least one hour before, or during, a sweat. Drink at least another 8 ounces afterward, and more as needed.
- Include sea salt in your diet to assist in replacing any minerals lost via sweating.
- Enhance sweating by exfoliating your skin; using a loofah sponge on dry skin is most efficient for this practice.
- The more relaxed you are, the more you can release and sweat.
- Lie down for 10 minutes following a sweat treatment.
It is important to exit a sweat treatment in the event you become sick, dizzy, or faint. More signs that you should leave a sweat session include:
- Increasing body temperature higher than four degrees
- A pulse that is greater than 50% faster than your resting pulse
- Feeling very dizzy, sick, or faint
The residential treatment and detoxification programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a laid-back and supportive environment. We’re enthusiastic about kick-starting your long-term recovery and getting you on track towards a happier and healthier future. We are always available to chat with you; call us today at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our world-class drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today!
