Santa Fe Saunas: Altitude Stealing Baby Lungs?
By Franklin Everett ShawForget the oxygen bars and overpriced “altitude adjustment” kits you see advertised around the Plaza. You’re in Santa Fe, a city that breathes history and art, but also sits at a lung-tickling 7,200 feet. That means your body needs a little extra TLC, especially if you’re planning on hitting up one of the city’s many saunas. Let’s cut through the fluff and get you sweating safely.
Santa Fe Saunas, like the one at Sunrise Springs Spa Resort or even a personal unit in a vacation rental, offer incredible benefits. They can detoxify, relax muscles sore from hiking Atalaya Mountain, and even improve cardiovascular health. But the altitude throws a wrench into the works. The air is thinner, meaning less oxygen gets to your blood. Add the heat of a sauna, which further stresses your cardiovascular system, and you’ve got a recipe for altitude sickness if you’re not careful.
So, how do you enjoy a Santa Fe sauna without feeling like you’re summiting Everest? It’s all about preparation, moderation, and listening to your body.
First, acclimatize. Don’t jump into a sauna the moment you arrive in Santa Fe. Give your body at least 24-48 hours to adjust to the altitude. This means taking it easy, avoiding strenuous activity, and drinking plenty of water. Think of it as a slow dance with the altitude, not a headbanging concert.
Next, hydrate like your life depends on it. And in a way, it does. The dry air of Santa Fe, combined with the sweating induced by a sauna, can quickly lead to dehydration. Dehydration exacerbates altitude sickness symptoms. Start hydrating before you even think about the sauna. Carry a water bottle with you everywhere. Aim for at least a gallon of water a day, and consider adding electrolytes. Nuun tablets, available at most local grocery stores like Whole Foods or Sprouts, are a great option.
Now, let’s talk sauna specifics. Limit your time. A typical sauna session might be 15-20 minutes at sea level. In Santa Fe, cut that in half, especially for your first few sessions. Start with 5-7 minutes and see how you feel. You can always increase the time gradually as your body adjusts.
Lower the temperature. Many saunas in Santa Fe are set to a standard temperature. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff to lower it, or if it’s a personal sauna, adjust it yourself. A slightly cooler sauna will still provide benefits without putting as much stress on your system.
Listen to your body. This is the most crucial piece of advice. If you start to feel dizzy, lightheaded, nauseous, or short of breath, immediately exit the sauna. Don’t try to tough it out. It’s not a competition. Cool down slowly, drink water, and rest.
Consider supplemental oxygen. Some spas in Santa Fe, like the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado, offer supplemental oxygen therapy. While not strictly necessary for everyone, it can be a helpful tool for those who are particularly sensitive to altitude or who want to push their sauna sessions a bit further.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine. These substances can dehydrate you and interfere with your body’s ability to acclimatize. Save the margaritas for after your sauna, and stick to water or herbal tea beforehand.
Eat light meals. Heavy meals can put extra stress on your digestive system, which can worsen altitude sickness symptoms. Opt for light, easily digestible foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
Be aware of pre-existing conditions. If you have any underlying health conditions, such as heart problems or respiratory issues, consult with your doctor before using a sauna in Santa Fe. Altitude can exacerbate these conditions.
Know the symptoms of altitude sickness. Familiarize yourself with the signs of altitude sickness, which can include headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention. Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center is the main hospital in Santa Fe.
Consider a lower altitude first. If you’re really concerned about altitude sickness, consider spending a day or two in Albuquerque (around 5,300 feet) before heading up to Santa Fe. This can help your body acclimatize more gradually.
Don’t overdo it. It’s tempting to try to cram in as many sauna sessions as possible during your vacation. Resist the urge. Less is more, especially when you’re at altitude.
Communicate with others. If you’re using a sauna with other people, let them know that you’re new to the altitude and that you might need to take breaks. This will help them understand if you need assistance.
Check the sauna’s ventilation. Make sure the sauna is properly ventilated. Poor ventilation can lead to a buildup of carbon dioxide, which can worsen altitude sickness symptoms.
Cool down gradually. After your sauna session, don’t jump into a cold shower or plunge pool immediately. Cool down gradually by sitting in a cooler area and drinking water.
Rest and recover. Give your body time to recover after your sauna session. Avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day.
Consider local remedies. Some locals swear by certain remedies for altitude sickness, such as coca tea or gingko biloba. While there’s limited scientific evidence to support these claims, they may be worth trying. You can find coca tea at some local markets.
Adjust your expectations. Don’t expect to be able to tolerate the same sauna conditions in Santa Fe as you would at sea level. Be prepared to adjust your time and temperature accordingly.
Enjoy the experience. With a little preparation and caution, you can safely enjoy the benefits of a Santa Fe sauna. Just remember to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and take it easy. The goal is relaxation and rejuvenation, not a medical emergency.
By following these tips, you can experience the unique benefits of Santa Fe saunas without succumbing to the challenges of high altitude. Remember, it’s about respecting your body and the environment. Now go sweat it out, safely!