Sauna--Its History and Benefits
Saunas Provide Ultimate Relaxation as well as Health Benefits
Apr 6, 2008
Saunas in the spa setting are typically closed-in steam rooms or small separate buildings designed as places in which clients can experience wet or dry heat sessions in a highly humid atmosphere. In the home setting, saunas are generally designed as small rooms with a dedicated heat source.
The heat source in saunas varies and may include woodstoves or fireplaces with chimneys or electrical or infra-red sources of heat. The steam, which permeates through saunas and makes the heat tolerable, is provided by moistened, heated stones or other sources of moist heat. Wooden benches are provided for sauna visitors to sit on and relax. Because heat rises, higher benches are provided for a more intense sauna experience, whereas low benches are provided for those desiring a less intense sauna. The heat in saunas usually ranges from 75 to 110 degrees Centigrade or from 160-200 degrees Fahrenheit.
The History of Saunas
Saunas were first introduced in the 8th century by the Finns in the form of the smoke sauna or savusauna. The early smoke saunas, which were located adjacent to bathing areas, were outdoor pits or small houses without chimneys heated by a pile of hot rocks. Smoke saunas are not used when a fire is burning under the rocks. Instead, the sauna room is prepared for use. After the fire is put out, the room is freshened and ash and embers are removed from the hearth. Because the stones retain heat, and moistened hot stones provide humidity, traditional smoke saunas provide hours of relaxation. Later Finnish smoke saunas used chimneys and lidded heat storage stoves with stone compartments as a means to reduce smoke.
Health Benefits
The moist heat in saunas induces relaxation and sweating, relieves congestion, and reduces arthritic pain. Saunas are particularly beneficial for patients with respiratory conditions including asthma and bronchitis. In patients with arthritis and chronic fatigue syndrome, saunas are reported to increase joint mobility and reduce pain and inflammation.
In therapeutic saunas, hot and cold heat may be alternated according to specific regimens designed for specific chronic conditions. These sessions should only be used under the direction of a physician, physical therapist or other health professional.
In the home setting, the sauna is used to improve health conditions, particularly arthritis, and as a form of relaxation. By promoting relaxation, saunas are reported to reduce levels of stress hormones, increase levels of beta-endorphins, and promote well-being.
Precautions
An average sauna session takes about 10-30 minutes. Prolonged use of saunas can lower diastolic blood pressure and deplete the body of electrolytes and other nutrients. The dehydrating effects of alcohol and certain medications, such as antihistamines, compound these effects. For this reason, the use of alcohol should be avoided before, during, and immediately after sauna sessions in clients with low blood pressure or heart problems. In addition, individuals may feel dizzy or light-headed upon standing in saunas and should take care when doing so. If saunas are to be followed by bathing, swimming or cold plunges into water; clients should wait several minutes to allow their bodies time to acclimate to cooler temperatures. After sauna sessions, it’s important to replace lost fluids by drinking adequate water.
Sauna Spa Courtesy
In the spa setting, clients generally wear swimwear or wrap themselves in towels for the sauna. Briefly showering before entering the sauna is recommended. Robes and footwear provided by the spa can also be worn into the sauna. Even in swimwear, clients generally sit on towels. However, in steam baths towels aren’t used. Most spa saunas are used by both males and females. When scheduling your spa visit, ask ahead for their policies regarding saunas.
It’s courteous to keep the door to the sauna closed so that heat doesn’t escape. Clients should refrain from speaking loudly (or at all) in the sauna.
Resources:
- Michael Cankar, The Finnish Sauna
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