In a closed cabin, a pile of rocks are heated up using large amount of firewood for 6-8 hours. The built up smoke is then let out before entering the sauna. These are called Smoke saunas. Saunas after the 2nd world war evolved to a room with a metal stove that heats up the rocks placed above it and lets out smoke through a chimney. Wood-burning saunas often times approach 80°C. But it feels bearable because the humidity level is kept very low. The steam is only produced when small amounts of water is sprayed onto the rocks. Otherwise this high temperature could almost be fatal. In comparison, the Turkish baths are a type of steam sauna where the steam produced from boiling water is passed through the sauna. In this case the humidity levels almost reach 100% but the temperature is kept around 40°C to compensate. An electric sauna cuts out the smoke. Water is poured onto the rocks to produce steam. An infrared sauna heats the body instead of the air. But they don’t reach temperatures as high as regular saunas. Unfortunately, sauna purists aren’t a big fan of infrared saunas.
Saunas are believed to improve cardiovascular functions, reduce inflammation, improve your skin, lengthen your lifespan and help in weight-loss. In some saunas the bathers beat themselves with branches of leaves to improve circulation. Saunas are often attached to a pool for bathers to cool off after their session. Gyms in many countries are found to be accompanied by a sauna. Many athletes use the sauna after their training to help with recovery. UFC athletes have used infrared saunas to cut water-weight before weigh-ins. In colder climates people equate sweating at the sauna, to working out at the gym.
It is interesting to note that most of the research is said to be coming from one place, Finland, the home of the sauna culture. But it sure reduces stress and helps your body relax. Be sure not to stay for too long and leave as soon as possible if you feel faint or ill or the heat becomes unbearable.
