How Do Steam Showers Work?
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Steam showers have been shown to provide a wide variety of benefits. For many users, following a workout with a steam shower will reduce the production of lactic acid, a chemical which leaves muscles sore once it builds up in muscle tissue. Typically, lactic acid takes time to break down so it can be flushed from the body, but steam showers aid the circulation and help flush lactic acid from the body before it can build up in muscle tissue. Once buildup occurs, often lactic acid must be broken down through direct deep tissue massage.
Steam showers can also increase muscle flexibility. Steam showers can aid breathing that has been decreased due to congestion or inflammation from colds and allergies. Steam showers can also help the body shed poisonous toxins and burn calories. Steam showers may also promote weight loss and diminish the appearance of cellulite.
Health Tips
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It is recommended that the body be allowed to return to its normal temperature following a workout prior to using a steam shower. Generous amounts of water should be consumed prior to a session in a steam shower to help avoid dehydration from lost fluids. A typical session should last 20 minutes. There is a risk of dehydration from prolonged exposure.
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Benefits
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Steam therapy from using a steam shower has many benefits. Steam therapy can aid the relief of symptoms from colds, asthma, bronchitis, viruses, headaches and allergies. A steam shower raises the body temperature, which can give the immune system a boost in fighting off pathogens. Steam showers have positive benefits for circulation without adverse effects on the blood pressure. Steam showers are an aid for stress release and relaxation.
Aesthetic Features
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Many options are available for residential steam showers and baths. Aromatherapy has been incorporated as a popular feature, and users can add eucalyptus or lavender oil to the steam bath experience. Lighting fixtures, water- and heat-proof radio and CD player speakers, fog-free mirrors, and benches that focus on comfort can all add to the steam bath experience. Many steam showers typically average 1 to 2 gallons per minute of water usage, and are more energy efficient.
Steam showers are now available for home use and offer many of the features found in commercial steam showers and steam rooms. They are also more energy efficient, and some models include whirlpool baths with air and water jets. Computer panels offer one-touch controls of the various features of a steam room, including temperature, timer and radio.
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