SAUNA, SOURCE OF HEALTH

The Finnish sauna (or dry sauna) is a treatment carried out with very hot and dry air, that takes place in a natural wooden chamber which is heated up by a stove. The features of this treatment are high temperature, which is kept at 70 to 100 degrees and a very low level of humidity between 10% and 20%, that favours an abundant perspiration as a body cooling mechanism.

The aim of a sauna is to provide heat to the body in order to produce perspiration, with therapeutic and/or hygienic purposes.

The heat of a Finnish sauna is obtained from heating non-sandstone blocks – volcanics – with electric resistances, that make stones turn red hot and radiate dry heat. The ideal temperature can also be reached with wood fire, for the most demanding and cautious users.

During the Finnish Sauna treatment, due to the heat, our metabolism and our heart rate increase, as blood vessels dilate. The skin circulation is improved and  peripheral circulatory disorders decrease, especially those in lower extremities.

The high temperature makes the muscles relax and reduce potential contractures, aches and/or pains in the joints. The sauna helps muscles recover after physical exercise.

With the perspiration increase stimulated by the dry sauna, the body eliminates toxins and acids with an immediate purifying effect. It also relieves pain from menstruation by the action of heat.

Finally, its positive properties not only offer benefits for physical health, but also for our mind; the Finnish Sauna reduces stress and tension, which results in a pleasant relaxed state. This causes psychic stimulation.

The main differences with the Turkish bath are due to the different levels of temperature and humidity required for the two treatments. In the Turkish bath the ideal temperature is between 40°- 50° and the humidity reaches 100% saturation, while in the Finnish sauna the temperature ranges between 70°-100° and the humidity around 10-20%. In the Finnish Sauna the very low value of the relative humidity facilitates the permanence of our body in an environment where the temperature is very high (between 70 and 100 degrees). As for its beneficial effects, in the case of the Turkish bath they are more related to the well-being of the skin and respiratory tract, while in the case of the Finnish sauna it improves the circulation and metabolic mechanisms and the small problems of the muscular apparatus.

There are no strict rules for how often you should throw more water onto the stove. Whenever you feel the need for another wave of steam, go for it. You will sweat a lot in a sauna, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids. Water is probably the best option, but beer and cider are what Finns enjoy the most. Grilling sausages—either over an open fire or wrapped in foil directly on the stove—is another key part of the sauna experience.

In reality, for Finns, there are no strict rules in a Finnish sauna, and how the experience unfolds depends entirely on the occasion. The most important thing is to relax, socialize, have a couple of drinks, and enjoy the post-sauna bliss—the feeling of having cleansed both body and mind.

However, there are some recommendations to ensure you fully enjoy the health benefits of a Finnish sauna.

Pre-Sauna Preparation

First, it is advisable to take a warm shower and cleanse your skin. To help your body gradually adapt to the sauna environment, it is recommended to start by sitting on the lower benches, where the temperature is lower, and then move up to the higher benches.

Inside the Sauna

After 10-15 minutes inside the Finnish sauna, it is advisable to step out and take a cold shower. This temperature contrast helps stimulate and rebalance the body.

Then, you can take a short break to relax and re-enter the sauna, sitting on the upper bench if you wish. It is recommended to take a cold or warm shower every 10-15 minutes. You can also use an exfoliating glove to remove sweat, impurities, and dead skin cells.

Before leaving, if you have been lying down, it is advisable to sit up slowly and remain seated for a minute to allow your circulation to adjust.

Post-Sauna Recommendations

After your sauna session, it is best to dress warmly to restore body temperature. Avoid sudden movements or intense activities, as the deep relaxation induced by a Finnish sauna can lead to a temporary drop in blood pressure. The best approach is to engage in gradual activities and hydrate slowly with refreshing, vitamin-rich drinks.

It is recommended to drink plenty of water or fruit juices before and after the session. A sauna causes significant fluid loss, so proper hydration is essential. Avoid entering the sauna immediately after eating, but also not on an empty stomach—fruit can be an ideal pre-sauna snack.