We know for sure that saunas are hot and provide users with improved metabolism, immunity, and heart function. However, before we move on to the differences offered by dry and steam saunas, it should be emphasized that reckless use of this room can cause more harm than good.
What types of saunas are there and what benefits do they bring? What ailments exclude the possibility of staying in a sauna?
A sauna is a room where, firstly, there is a very high temperature and, secondly, either very low or very high humidity, which differentiates dry sauna from wet sauna. Due to these conditions, one can stay in it for a few minutes and then should cool down the body. Saunas are most popular in Finland, Russia, and Estonia. The beginnings of saunas involved digging pits into which stones were thrown. These were then ignited and water was poured over them. Nowadays, sauna conditions are much more hygienic and comfortable.
The sauna helps reduce stress, fatigue symptoms, and muscle tension. It allows us to enjoy healthy, youthful skin longer. Raising the body temperature by one degree triggers, similar to a fever, increased production of immune cells in the blood, which fight bacteria and viruses. This ensures faster recovery from any cold. What saunas can we find in our country and how do they differ?
What is classic never goes out of style. It is here that those craving warmth will find the highest temperature, as it can reach up to 120 degrees Celsius. Humidity, on the other hand, is a maximum of 15%. Usually, the entire dry sauna is made of wood, including the benches inside where people sit. This type of sauna is most recommended for people struggling with back muscle tension, rheumatoid arthritis, bronchial asthma, bronchitis, and arterial occlusions. The health benefits of dry sauna have also been demonstrated for patients after a heart attack, but it is important to wait at least six months or more and consult a doctor before the first sauna session. The maximum time one should spend there is 12 minutes. The best results can be achieved by using the sauna once a week. Both dry and steam saunas will improve our vitality and blood circulation, and also make us healthier. How does a steam sauna differ and when should it be used?
Also read: Dry (Finnish) sauna – how to use it? Pros and cons!
The steam sauna is less hot; the temperature maintained there averages 50-60 degrees Celsius. Its humidity, on the other hand, is at least 40%, often more. High humidity makes the hot air felt more, so the temperature must be lower here. Due to the high humidity, the steam sauna is made of materials such as ceramics or tempered glass. One can stay in the steam sauna longer than in the dry sauna. According to experts, it is best to start your sauna career with the conditions offered by the wet sauna.
This type of sauna is more intended for people needing nerve calming. Essential oils promoting relaxation and unwinding can be used in it. The wet sauna is most popular among people struggling with upper respiratory diseases. It also works excellently in cleansing the body of accumulated toxins and improving metabolism. People with problematic, oily skin notice an improvement in skin condition when regularly using the steam sauna. Athletes and physically active people should use the steam sauna because of its benefit of improving endurance.
Also read: Steam sauna — how to use it? Advantages, properties, and effects
There is also a type of sauna called infrared. It works by heat being generated through infrared radiation. Thus, it is not the air in the room that heats up but the human body. It is therefore a place that can also be used by elderly people and children for whom dry and wet saunas are not recommended. It is recommended for people with discopathy, musculoskeletal injuries, and back pain.
Like any medicine, saunas have their limitations. Contraindications to their use include diseases such as cancer, diabetes, eye diseases (glaucoma), toothache, fungal diseases, and digestive system diseases.
