A stay at Ski & Wellness Residence Družba isn’t complete without relaxing in the largest hotel wellness center in Jasná. Guests can enjoy a 25-meter swimming pool, a variety of relaxation treatments, bubble baths, a traditional wooden tub, and a wide selection of saunas. It’s the saunas—and especially regular sauna use—that are associated with a wide range of health benefits, which we’ll briefly outline below.

Clear, well-documented benefits

The positive effects of sauna bathing have been confirmed by multiple independent studies and research. Regular sauna use has a beneficial impact on the circulatory, immune, and cardiovascular systems. It has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke, lung diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and even common colds and flu. Beyond internal health benefits, sauna use also has a positive effect on skin conditions. It can help ease symptoms of psoriasis, support allergy and asthma management, and provide relief for certain rheumatic conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system.

Stress relief and improved mood

Sauna doesn’t just work on the body—it also helps calm the mind and supports overall relaxation. For many people, there’s no better way to unwind after a demanding day than spending a few minutes in a hot, dry sauna. The warm environment is linked to improved cellular energy processes, supporting the mitochondria that help keep the body energized and functioning efficiently.

Detox, better circulation, and sleep quality

During sauna sessions, the body naturally sweats out waste substances, blood circulation improves, and feel-good hormones are released. After a sauna, your mood typically lifts and built-up stress drops noticeably. A full sauna cycle usually includes three to four heat sessions combined with cooling in cold water. After this, it’s recommended to avoid any demanding physical or mental activity. This helps the body fully recover and is one of the reasons regular sauna use is often associated with better sleep quality.

Reduces the risk of heart attack by up to 63%

To go beyond general statements, it’s worth mentioning research by Finnish scientists from the University of Eastern Finland. A research team led by Dr. Jari Laukkanen followed 2,000 men aged 42 to 60 over a period of twenty years. The participants were divided into two groups: regular sauna users and those who did not use a sauna. The study found that regular sauna use can reduce the risk of heart attack by up to 63%. The group of regular sauna users also showed a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease overall and, on average, a longer lifespan. This is just one example of many studies that have focused on sauna bathing and its effects on the human body.

Too much of a good thing can be harmful

Even sauna use should be approached in moderation. It’s important to follow basic, often unwritten sauna etiquette to avoid health complications and to get the most out of its positive effects. You can find more about proper sauna behavior and individual sauna cycles in one of our earlier articles.

When to avoid sauna use

You should skip the sauna if you suffer from serious heart conditions, certain skin diseases, or neurological disorders such as epilepsy. If you’re planning to start regular sauna sessions and have any chronic health issues, it’s strongly recommended to consult your doctor first.