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 offer? What conditions exclude the possibility of being in a sauna?
A sauna is a room where, firstly, there is a very high temperature and, secondly, very low or high humidity, which distinguishes a dry sauna from a wet one. 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 placed. These were then heated and water was poured on them. Nowadays, conditions in saunas are much more hygienic and comfortable.
The sauna helps reduce stress, fatigue symptoms, and muscle tension. Thanks to it, we can enjoy healthy, youthful skin longer. Raising the body temperature by one degree triggers, similarly to a fever, increased production of immune cells in the blood that fight bacteria and viruses. This ensures faster recovery from any cold. What saunas can be found in our country and how do they differ?
What is classic never goes out of fashion. It is here that those who crave heat will find the highest temperature, which can be up to 120 degrees Celsius. The humidity, however, is at most 15%. Most often the entire dry sauna is made of wood, including the benches inside, on which one sits. This type of sauna is most recommended for people struggling with back muscle tension, rheumatoid arthritis, bronchial asthma or bronchitis, and arterial blockages. The health benefits of the dry sauna have also been demonstrated in patients after a heart attack, but here it is important to wait half a year or more and consult a doctor before the first sauna session. The maximum time one should spend there is 12 minutes. The best effects can be achieved by using the sauna once a week. Both dry and steam saunas improve our vitality and blood circulation, as well as make us healthier. How does the steam sauna differ and when should it be used?
Read also: Dry (Finnish) sauna – how to use it? Pros and cons!
The steam sauna is less hot because the temperature maintained there averages 50-60 degrees Celsius. Its humidity oscillates at a minimum of 40%, often more. The high humidity makes the hot air feel more intense, so the temperature must be lower here. Due to high humidity, the steam sauna is built from materials like ceramic or tempered glass. In steam sauna conditions, one can stay longer than in a dry sauna. According to experts, it is best to start one’s sauna career with the conditions offered by the moist sauna.
This type of sauna is more intended for people needing nerve calmness. Essential oils promoting relaxation and unwind can be used in it. The moist sauna is most popular among people struggling with upper respiratory tract diseases. It also works excellently in cleansing the body of accumulated toxins and improving metabolism. People with problematic, oily skin notice improvement in skin condition when regularly using the steam sauna. Athletes and physically active people should use the steam sauna because of its advantage of improving endurance.
Read also: Steam sauna — how to use it? Advantages, properties, and effects
There is also the infrared sauna. It works by heat being produced through infrared radiation. Thus, it is not the air in the room that heats up but the people’s bodies. It is therefore a place that can also be used by older people and children, for whom dry and wet saunas are not recommended. It is recommended for people with discopathy, injuries of the musculoskeletal system, and back pain.
Saunas, like any medicine, have their limitations. Contraindications to using them include diseases such as cancer, diabetes, eye diseases (glaucoma), toothache, fungal diseases, or digestive system disorders.
