The sauna is a way of life
In Finland, where the earliest traces of the traditional sauna date back more than 2,000 years, there are about 3 million saunas for every 5.5 million inhabitants. And there’s a good reason for that. Taking a sauna is not only a great way to relax and relieve stress, but it also has a cleansing effect. Above all, a sauna session is a valuable rest for body and mind. The skin begins to sweat profusely, which helps to open the pores and thus purify the body.
The steam, an important component of the sauna, adds to the health benefits. It reduces stress, helps to fall asleep and can even relieve skin problems such as (acne, psoriasis, eczema, hives). Unlike a steam sauna, the heat in the sauna remains dry (between 3% and 20% humidity) at an optimal operating temperature of 176 °F. Steam is an essential part of traditional sauna bathing. This steam is produced by a stove with stones. By pouring water on the heated stones, the steam is created.
The secret of a relaxing sauna session
To get the most out of the sauna, you need to follow some basic guidelines that can be summed up in a “ritual”. Most people make the mistake of thinking that the longer they stay in the sauna, or the hotter the sauna, the more intensely they sweat. Successful sauna sessions are achieved by alternating hot and cold baths, with rest periods in between.
Sauna Ritual
- Shower before going to the sauna and make sure the sauna is the right temperature (ideally 176 °F).
- Take a seat and take it easy. Your sauna session should last no longer than 15 minutes.
- You can increase the humidity by pouring a few ladles of water over the hot sauna stones.
- Alternating between hot and cold helps tone the body, which means take a cold shower afterward.
- After drying off, take 15 to 30 minutes to rest on a comfortable lounge chair to allow your body to recover.
- To maximize the sauna experience for your body, we recommend that you perform the steps listed 2-3 times.
- After spending time in the sauna, you should replenish your fluid levels immediately. Drinks fortified with electrolytes are a suitable way to quickly restore the body’s mineral balance.
