The Science Behind How Saunas May Ease Seasonal Affective Disorder

Some people with SAD rely on light therapy. Now, heat therapy is having its moment in the spotlight.
By
Natasha Hinde
15/11/2025 08:00am GMT
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Saunas for seasonal depression
Counselling Directory member Zsofia Kaplar told HuffPost UK: “Using a sauna can benefit mental health and wellbeing in several ways.”

She explained that the intense heat itself can trigger “the production of a magic trio of feel-good hormones – endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, while lowering the stress hormone cortisol”.

“While the physical benefits of sauna use are better known, social connections also directly improve mental health and wellbeing – and in many cultures, a local sauna is the place for a low-key (and alcohol-free!) social gathering,” she said.

This is something Dr Martha Newson, associate professor in Psychology at University of Greenwich and leader of The Changing Lives Lab at University of Oxford, has a keen interest in.
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https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/can-saunas-help-sad-symptoms_uk_69132b97e4b0d0f8e6ce2b0d