Saunas have been used to represent warmth, wellness and community since centuries. From the frozen icy mountains of Finland to the latest spas and residential premises around the world, custom outdoor infrared sauna experience is one of the most effective methods of relaxing, de-toxifying, and rejuvenating. A mere wooden hut with a set of heated stones has now become one of the most advanced wellness amenities that can be kept in line with modern forms of architecture and lifestyle.
Most saunas are no longer found only in the luxury resorts nowadays, they are being incorporated into residential and recreational areas. It doesn’t matter whether you are constructing a new house, creating a wellness semblance, or just trying to make most out of this time-old, but at the same time, ever-trendy, practice, it is better to learn how the saunas function, and what health benefits they offer to help you enjoy this type of practice to its fullest.
How a Sauna Works
A sauna simply is a tiny room that is used to heat up and sweat. Using this form of sweating aids in the elimination of toxins, enhances circulation and de-tension of muscles.
The two types of the heat systems in a sauna are:
- Traditional (Dry) Saunas: These utilise the use of hot stones or stoves to increase the temperature of the air in the room, usually 70 o C to 100 o C. People are allowed to add water to the stones to allow production of steam and set the humidity to their preference.
- Infrared Saunas: A more recent substitute, the infrared saunas relies on infrared heaters to heat the body directly without raising the air temperature much. This renders them more efficient in terms of energy and is usually more comfortable to individuals who are sensitive to heat.
The two types have similar health benefits, but there is a slight variation in the experience and overall atmosphere. Conventional saunas are very hot and dry, whereas the infrared saunas are not very hot but are rather warm and penetrate deeper into the skin.
The Health Benefits of Using Sauna
The habit of using saunas regularly has been linked to many health and well being benefits which have been supported by ancient wisdom and contemporary research.
- Detoxification: One of the natural methods of getting rid of toxins in the body is through the process of sweating.
- Relaxation of Muscles and Joints: Saunas are popular with athletes and people with arthritis or chronic pain among others as the heat helps to relax the muscles and alleviate the stiffness.
- Stress Reliever: The practice of using a sauna induces the secretion of endorphins, which are natural hormones of the body that are known to make one feel good. Relaxation and mindfulness is another result of the serene, cozy atmosphere.
- Improved Sleep: It is common knowledge that most individuals sleep more quickly and have a better sleep after a visit to the sauna, due to the deep relaxation they have.
Use of saunas is however a good thing to do but in a safe manner. Being hydrated, spending not much time indoors (usually 10-20 minutes at a time), and slowing down the process afterwards is a healthy step towards an enjoyable experience.
Types of Saunas in Contemporary Design
What is beautiful about saunas is the fact that they are flexible. They may be accommodated in homes, gyms, spas, hotels and even in tight apartments. The technology of the time has provided an opportunity to design saunas as per individual preferences and the space.
- Indoor Saunas: It is commonly used in bathrooms or wellness rooms or basements. They are portable and can be accessed all year round.
- Outdoor Saunas: These are built in gardens, along pools or terraces and provide a picturesque escape. Outdoor saunas are accompanied by nature and fresh air, which increase relaxation and closeness to nature.
- Infrared Cabins: As a relatively small and low-energy use device, infrared saunas are currently used in homes. They warm up fast and do not demand a lot of installation.
- Steam Rooms: Steam rooms are not really saunas, but they are similar with high humidity and relatively lower temperatures with other therapeutic effects.
The architects and designers have come to view saunas as wellness spaces as well as architectural elements that enhance property value and attractiveness. Saunas can be used with contemporary or rustic design with the help of clean lines and natural wood covers, as well as using light with minimal intensity.
Saunas and Eco-Friendly Living
The other influence of increasing popularity of saunas in present-day households is that it coincides with sustainable and holistic lifestyles. Most of the manufacturers are currently using environmental certified wood and energy efficient heating systems. The application of strong natural wood such as cedar, hemlock, or spruce also helps to preserve its life and the minimum influence on the environment.
Furthermore, a sauna as one of the elements in the designing of the home promotes conscious living. It is an every-day reminder to slow down, take deep breaths, and take care of physical and mental health, which today is particularly close to the culture of wellness.
Final Thoughts
Sauna is among the most ancient wellness customs, which is still flourishing in the present world and rightfully so. The fact that it can nurture both body and the mind has made it immortal. The sauna, regardless of it being constructed as the extension of a grand residence, a neighborhood relaxation studio, or an apartment facility, still symbolizes warmth, equilibrium, and wellbeing.
With the construction and real estate businesses incorporating wellness into their designs, a sauna can be regarded as a modest but effective tool that can be used to guarantee relaxation and make people live longer. We live in a busy world, so when we go into an affordable, relaxing sauna, it is not only a comfort but a way to reconnect with ourselves.