14 August 2026
New study reveals why we use saunas
Mental recovery, social connection, a sense of cleanliness and physical health are four recurring themes when people describe why they use saunas. This is shown in a new study involving researchers from Luleå University of Technology. The study also found some differences between men and women, with men primarily highlighting social connection and women mental recovery.
Researchers from Luleå University of Technology, Karlstad University and Uppsala University have investigated why people use saunas and how they perceive the role of sauna bathing in health and well-being. The study involved 588 regular sauna users.
The results show that sauna bathing is primarily associated with mental recovery, social connection, a sense of cleanliness and physical health. Together, these four areas provide a better understanding of why people use saunas and what they feel they gain from the experience.
"We can use these findings as a basis for further research into how sauna bathing may contribute to health and well-being," says Åsa Engström, Professor of Nursing at Luleå University of Technology and one of the researchers behind the study.
Åsa Engström, professor i omvårdnad vid Luleå tekniska universitet.
A place for recovery and social connection
The study also found some differences between women and men. Mental recovery was the most common motivation among women, while social connection was the most common among men.
Women mainly described the sauna as a place for peace and quiet and as a break from screens and the demands of everyday life, providing an opportunity to unwind, reflect and reduce feelings of worry.
Men primarily described the sauna as a natural meeting place for spending time with family and friends, as well as for meeting people they might not otherwise have encountered.
"What is interesting is that the sauna appears to meet so many different needs. For many people, it is at least as much about recovery, social connection and well-being as it is about the heat itself," says Åsa Engström.
Further research into health effects
Women in the study also reported better sleep quality and less bodily pain following sauna bathing. The researchers did not observe the same clear difference among men. According to Åsa Engström, the large number of women who took part in the study is particularly interesting, as previous research on sauna bathing has predominantly involved men.
The researchers now want to investigate several of the findings further.
"We would like to test sauna bathing as a way of improving health, particularly as a tool for managing stress," says Åsa Engström.
Link to the study: Sauna bathing: motivations, perceived benefits, and gender differences- a descriptive health promotion study
More information about the research subject Nursing.
Contact
Åsa Engström
- Professor and Head of Subject
- 0920-493875
- asa.engstrom@ltu.se
- Åsa Engström
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