Saunas help ease tired muscles, get rid of aches and pains and are just plain relaxing. They can be found in all kinds of places, from a gondola above the Finnish mountains to a traditional Andean hothouse built with eucalyptus leaves. But a home sauna is the best option for people who want to enjoy the benefits of sweating on a regular basis, without leaving their house.
Home saunas can be placed inside or outside (if they are specifically listed as outdoor-use) and often need to be placed in a room with adequate ventilation, such as a basement that has good flooring or a large tiled bathroom. They may also need to be covered, depending on the climate.
Exploring the World of Saunas, Sauna Heaters, and Accessories
Typically, the sauna is heated to about 200 degrees Fahrenheit and uses a combination of dry heat and steam, with rocks that you can splash water on to create a little steam. In addition to the normal sweating that occurs in a sauna, research suggests that it may help with cardiovascular disease by improving how much oxygen gets to your heart muscle, as well as reducing blood pressure.
It can also be used to help with skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, by opening up pores and helping the body expel bacteria. But it’s important to note that prolonged use of a sauna can cause dehydration, so if you aren’t used to it, experts recommend starting with just 5 or 10 minutes at a time and working your way up. Also, if you are taking medication or have certain health concerns, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before using a sauna.