At the 2022 World Sauna Forum, attendees were treated to a captivating presentation by Dr. Emilia Vuorisalmi whose personal journey of heartbreak and self-discovery led to remarkable insights into the intersection of love, health, and the sauna experience.
Dr. Vuorisalmi, reflecting on a turbulent period in her life a decade ago, shared how a painful breakup and divorce triggered a cascade of physical and emotional symptoms. Struggling with sleep problems, back pains, and panic attacks, they embarked on a quest to unravel the mysteries of love’s impact on health.
This journey culminated in the creation of two bestselling books: “High on Love” and a subsequent exploration into the attachment phase of love. Through research, she discovered that this phase, characterized by warmth and stability, coincided with a delicate balance of three key hormones: dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin.
Dr. Vuorisalmi emphasized the importance of sustainable wellness practices, advocating for a holistic approach to maintaining health and happiness. Drawing parallels between sauna bathing and the physiological effects of love, she proposed that sauna sessions could serve as a gateway to enhanced well-being.
Highlighting the connection between sauna bathing and the release of “love hormones,” Dr. Vuorisalmi underscored sauna’s potential to foster joy, creativity, and gratitude. She encouraged attendees to embrace moments of reflection and introspection post-sauna, leveraging the heightened plasticity of the brain to cultivate positive habits and attitudes.
Moreover, Dr. Vuorisalmi illuminated sauna’s role in promoting relaxation, deep breathing, and disconnection from digital distractions, fostering a sense of presence and mindfulness akin to meditation. Throughout the presentation, she wove personal anecdotes and cultural insights, offering a glimpse into Finland’s sauna traditions and their profound impact on social cohesion and diplomacy.
Dr. Vuorisalmi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share their insights and called upon the audience to champion sauna as not only a cultural treasure but also a powerful tool for holistic healing and love. As Finland emerges as a hub for holistic health, sauna stands at the forefront, beckoning individuals worldwide to embrace its transformative potential.
You can now watch Dr. Emilia Vuorisalmi´s full speech from our Youtube channel.
