How many types of saunas are there and what are their various uses? This article outlines all the important things you need to know about saunas.
Saunas have been a normal part of life in Finland for centuries and are now enjoying a rise in popularity in the United States, too. Why is that? Well, the Finnish were on to something. Saunas are relaxing and calming, but they also have some very real health benefits.
There are three basic types of saunas, and all have similar health benefits. Keep reading for a basic overview of each type of sauna.
Three Types of Saunas
There are three main types of saunas to choose from, and they’re all great. Traditionalists will point to the oldest variety which goes back to at least the 1600s! The newest has only been around a few years. See below to learn more.
Traditional Finnish Saunas
The oldest, and still most popular type of sauna is the traditional Finnish variety. It’s probably what comes to mind when you imagine a sauna: wood panels and seating, a heating element with rocks, and some water to throw on the rocks to create steam.
They are heated to around 170-180 degrees and the steam is optional. The humidity is typically around 20-40%. These have been around for hundreds of years and show no signs of decreased popularity.
Steam Sauna
The steam sauna, sometimes called a Turkish sauna, is very similar to the Finnish variety except that it has a lot of steam. Water is applied much more frequently to the heating element, so there is always steam. In fact, the humidity is typically around 100% in these saunas.
Some humidity is good for use int he sauna, but it’s really personal preference if you want about 30% or 100%.
Infrared Saunas
The newest form of sauna is the infrared variety. These are very on-trend right now. Like traditional saunas, they heat your body and you sweat. But they do this through infrared wave lengths that heat your body’s core.
The ambient temperature is much lower (about 125-150 degrees) since your body is being heated directly at its core. The infrared waves pass through your skin and into your body to do this.
Like any option, there are infrared sauna benefits and disadvantages. One key advantage for some is that the sauna isn’t quite as hot, and still provides the same health benefits.
A disadvantage is that the overall feel might not like you to imagine a sauna to be. Some people are worried about radiation from the infrared light, though it is generally thought to be a safe amount.
Health Benefits
The health benefits of using a sauna are significant. General mortality goes way down the more you use a sauna! It helps your cardiovascular health, creates good stress on your body (like exercise does), and makes you feel calm.
As you sweat, it also helps you eliminate some toxins from your body and makes your skin look and feel better. And again, it helps you live longer!
Get on Board
If you want a relaxing way to improve your mood and health, try going to a sauna. The health benefits are significant, and it’s enjoyable. The infrared saunas are the newest thing, but any of the types of saunas listed above provides health benefits!
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Feature Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels
