The benefits of a steam shower
Taking a shower might seem simply part of your daily routine. But in many ways, it’s more than that.
For most of us, a shower signifies the start of the day - energising the body and washing the weight of sleep away. A shower also can mark the start of preparations for an event or night out, or simply lift away the stress of the working day, sending it down the plughole.
That feeling of release - a blend of both renewed energy and relaxation - isn’t just in your head. There are a number of changes that take place in the body when showering, which can have a positive impact on your well-being. Many of these changes are enhanced when using a steam shower.
In this article, we will look more closely at the benefits of a steam shower.
What is a steam shower?
A steam shower is a type of shower that uses a generator to produce steam, which is then dispersed into a sealed shower enclosure, or steam shower cabinet.
Unlike many traditional showers, steam showers are almost always self-contained, standalone shower stalls. Some, such as the ones sold at Athlete Recovery, feature luxurious bathtubs, too.
Users enjoy an almost tropical, humid environment within the cabinet. What’s more, steam showers tend to be more eco-friendly than the traditional equivalent, given that they use less water.
That doesn’t mean you can’t effectively wash - the steam showers we sell at Athlete Recovery, such as the Lisna Waters White Corner Steam Shower Cabin, leverage the best elements of a high-end traditional shower and bath unit, and enhance them with steam-generating functionality.
Such showers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Read on for more.
A powerful stress reliever
Arguably, one of the biggest benefits of a steam shower is its ability to relieve stress.
The warm, moist environment helps to relax both the body and the mind, reducing tension and promoting a sense of calm. This can be a “game changer” for those who suffer from anxiety or have high-stress jobs and struggle to slow down after a busy day.
When combined with essential oils, or other specialised showering products, the effect can be truly significant. Trust us!
Relax the body and mind
Although a supreme stress buster, a steam shower isn’t just for those tricky moments in life - it also promotes relaxation in general.
The warmth of the steam can help to soothe sore muscles and joints, reducing pain and stiffness. This can be particularly beneficial for those who suffer from conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.
Athletes are particular fans of steam showers since the warm steam can help with post-workout recovery.
Warm steam gently cleanses skin
Want to boost your glow? You’ll be interested to learn steam showers are also great for the skin.
The steam helps to open up the pores, allowing dirt and impurities to be easily removed. This can be especially helpful for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Many people find their skin left dry by a hot shower, but the moist environment of a steam shower cabinet can help to hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.
Detox: Get rid of those toxins
A steam shower is a great way to detoxify the body.
The warm, moist environment helps to increase blood flow and promote sweating, which can help to eliminate toxins from the body. In many ways, the effect is comparable to that of an infrared sauna.
Whether you’re carrying out a detoxification regime, or simply trying to speed up recovery after a particularly heavy night, a steam shower is going to help.
Steam showers improve circulation
Another benefit of a steam shower is its ability to improve circulation.
The warmth of the steam helps to dilate blood vessels, increasing blood flow throughout the body.
This can be particularly beneficial for those with poor circulation or who suffer from conditions such as Raynaud's disease. Improved circulation also supports the detoxification and muscle recovery described above - a win-win.
Support your sinuses and reduce congestion
Seasonal colds and flu were back with something of a vengeance this year, with blocked noses (and worse) commonplace nationwide.
Steam showers are great for relieving congestion. The moist environment can help to loosen mucus in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. Consider this the advanced version of inhaling Vicks Vapour rub via a bowl of hot water with a tea towel on your head!
If you’re struggling with respiratory illnesses, or suffer from allergy-related issues, a steam shower can be an extremely worthwhile investment.
Get a better night’s sleep
A warm bath is often cited as a sleep aid, and a steam shower is no different.
The relaxation and stress-reducing benefits of a steam shower can help to promote a restful sleep, while the warmth of the steam can help to regulate body temperature in the same way a bath does (all while using significantly less water).
What are the benefits of a steam shower?
Steam showers offer a wide range of benefits for both physical and mental health.
From promoting relaxation and reducing stress to improving circulation and detoxifying the body, there are many reasons to consider incorporating a steam shower into your routine.
If you’re considering adding a steam shower to your home, you’re in the right place. Athlete Recovery is the UK’s leading supplier of premium hone products - including steam showers.
Get in touch today to find out more.