Neural characterization of the “totonou” state associated with sauna use

doi:10.1101/2023.01.06.522959

Paper

Neural characterization of the “totonou” state associated with sauna use

Published Feb 9, 2023 · Ming Chang, Takuya Ibaraki, Y. Naruse

bioRxiv

UNKNOWN SJR score

2

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Abstract

Saunas are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, being an activity that promotes relaxation and health. Intense feelings of happiness have been reported shortly after enjoying a hot sauna and cold water, what is known in Japan as the “totonou” state. However, no research has investigated what occurs in the brain during the “totonou” state. In the present study, participants underwent a sauna phase, consisting of three sets of alternating hot sauna, cold water, and rest. We elucidated changes in brain activity and mood in the “totonou” state by measuring and comparing brain activity and emotional scales before and after the sauna phase and during the rest phase in each set. We found significant increases in theta and alpha power during rest and after the sauna phase compared to before the sauna phase. Moreover, in an auditory oddball task, the p300 amplitude decreased significantly and MMN amplitude increased significantly after the sauna phase. The increase in MMN indicates higher activation of the pre-attentional auditory process, leading to a decrease in attention-related brain activity P300. Hence, the brain reaches in a more efficient state. Further, the response time in behavioral tasks decreased significantly. In addition, the participants’ subjective responses to the questionnaire showed significant changes in physical relaxation and other indicators after being in the sauna. Finally, we developed an artificial intelligence classifier, obtaining an average accuracy of brain state classification of 88.34%. The results have potential for future application.

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Study Snapshot

The "totonou" state, associated with sauna use, involves increased theta and alpha brain activity, decreased attention-related brain activity, and decreased response time, with an average accuracy of 88.34%.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

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Paper

Neural characterization of the “totonou” state associated with sauna use

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References

Citations

Influence of monaural auditory stimulation combined with music on brain activity

Monaural beats combined with music effectively increase theta active band power and induce relaxation, similar to the "totonou" state in saunas.

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