**Santa Fe Saunas: Altitude Lies Drying Summer Livers?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe dry air here in Santa Fe can be brutal, especially during the winter months. But what if I told you there’s a way to combat that dryness, detoxify your liver, and feel amazing, all while embracing a practice that’s been around for centuries? It’s time Santa Feans learned how to properly use saunas at altitude.
Sauna use, when done correctly, offers a powerful combination of benefits, particularly for those of us living in the high desert. We’re talking about liver detoxification, improved circulation, and deep hydration, all tailored to our unique environment.
Let’s dive into how Santa Fe residents can safely and effectively use saunas to optimize their health.
First, let’s address the elephant in the room: altitude. Santa Fe sits at over 7,000 feet. This means our bodies are already working harder to get oxygen. Sauna use further stresses the cardiovascular system. Therefore, moderation and careful hydration are key.
Hydration is King (and Queen)
Forget the generic “drink more water” advice. We need a Santa Fe-specific hydration protocol. Plain water alone isn’t enough. You need electrolytes.
Pre-Sauna Hydration: Start hydrating at least two hours before your session. Aim for 16-20 ounces of water with added electrolytes. A great local option? Make your own electrolyte drink using blue corn flour. Blue corn is naturally rich in minerals like potassium and magnesium. Mix a tablespoon of blue corn flour with water, a pinch of sea salt, and a squeeze of lime. This provides sustained hydration and replenishes lost electrolytes.
During-Sauna Hydration: Sip on water throughout your session. Don’t chug! Small, frequent sips are best.
Post-Sauna Rehydration: This is where the magic happens. Prickly pear juice is your secret weapon. This local delicacy is packed with antioxidants and electrolytes. Mix 4 ounces of prickly pear juice with 8 ounces of water and a pinch of sea salt. This will help replenish lost fluids and support liver detoxification. You can find prickly pear juice at the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market or local health food stores.
Liver Detoxification: The Santa Fe Way
Saunas promote detoxification through sweat. But simply sweating isn’t enough. You need to support your liver’s natural detoxification processes.
Pre-Sauna Liver Support: Consider taking a milk thistle supplement a few weeks before starting regular sauna sessions. Milk thistle is a well-known herb that supports liver function. Consult with a local naturopathic doctor for personalized recommendations.
Post-Sauna Liver Support: Bitter greens are your friend. Dandelion greens, readily available at the Farmers’ Market, are excellent for stimulating bile production, which aids in detoxification. Add them to your post-sauna meal.
Sauna Session Protocol: Santa Fe Edition
Forget the hour-long sauna sessions you might read about online. At altitude, shorter is better.
Start Slow: Begin with 10-15 minute sessions at a lower temperature (around 150-170°F). Gradually increase the duration and temperature as your body adapts.
Listen to Your Body: This is crucial. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous, exit the sauna immediately.
Cool Down Gradually: Avoid jumping into a cold plunge pool immediately after your session. This can shock your system. Instead, take a lukewarm shower or simply sit in a cool room for 10-15 minutes.
Local Sauna Facilities: Where to Sweat in Style
Santa Fe offers several options for sauna enthusiasts.
Ten Thousand Waves: This Japanese-style spa offers a variety of saunas, including a traditional Finnish sauna and a Himalayan salt sauna. Their serene atmosphere is perfect for relaxation and detoxification.
Body of Santa Fe: This wellness center features infrared saunas, which are known for their gentle heat and deep penetration.
Local Gyms: Many gyms in Santa Fe, such as the Santa Fe Spa, offer saunas as part of their membership.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Dehydration: This is the biggest risk at altitude. Follow the hydration protocol outlined above.
Electrolyte Imbalance: Plain water won’t cut it. Replenish electrolytes with blue corn flour drinks and prickly pear juice.
Overdoing It: Start slow and listen to your body. Don’t try to push yourself too hard, especially when you’re first starting out.
Ignoring Underlying Health Conditions: If you have any underlying health conditions, such as heart problems or high blood pressure, consult with your doctor before using a sauna.
Real-World Scenario: Combating Winter Dryness
Let’s say you’re a Santa Fe resident struggling with dry skin and chapped lips during the winter. Incorporate sauna sessions into your routine 2-3 times per week. Follow the hydration protocol, focusing on prickly pear juice post-sauna. You’ll notice a significant improvement in your skin’s hydration and overall well-being.
Actionable Insights:
- Create a personalized hydration plan: Track your fluid intake and electrolyte levels.
- Experiment with different sauna temperatures and durations: Find what works best for your body.
- Incorporate liver-supporting foods into your diet: Focus on bitter greens and other detoxifying foods.
- Listen to your body: Don’t push yourself too hard.
Sauna use in Santa Fe can be a powerful tool for optimizing your health, but it’s essential to approach it with caution and awareness. By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively harness the benefits of sauna therapy and thrive in our unique high-altitude environment. Remember, it’s about listening to your body and adapting the practice to your individual needs. Embrace the heat, Santa Fe, and let the detoxification begin!