FEATURE: Japanese researchers exploring ways to explain "totonou" sauna high

TOKYO - The Japanese verb "totonou" -- used to describe the euphoric sensation and mental clarity associated with sauna bathing -- has become a cultural phenomenon in recent years.

Researchers are now trying to scientifically explain what happens inside the body when people alternate between sauna heat, cold baths and periods spent relaxing in the fresh air while also exploring ways to make sauna use safer.