When we think of the next wellness holiday, one thing comes to many minds first: the sauna — one of the oldest and best-proven methods of relaxation. Regular sauna rounds loosen the musculature, promote circulation and count as training for the cardiovascular system and the immune defences. How the individual types of sauna differ is above all a question of heat and humidity.
Here is a small insight into the most widespread types of sauna — with their essential differences and merits.
First the most important thing: when using the sauna, listen to your body and follow its signals. Should you become dizzy or feel unwell, leave the sauna, cool down and best of all head for a rest room.
Finnish sauna
The “classic” sauna for many is the Finnish sauna: in principle a room entirely panelled in wood, heated by an electric or wood-fired stove. It is distinguished by high temperatures of 80–100 degrees at a low humidity of only 10–30 %. The characteristic surge of heat is provided by the infusion — classically without essential oils and usually towards the end of the round. In Finland and Russia people additionally beat themselves with birch twigs, which stimulates blood circulation. It is recommended to leave the sauna after 10–20 minutes and to take a cooling phase — ideally repeated two or three times. The combination of strong heat and low humidity typical of the Finnish sauna challenges the circulation and makes the body sweat thoroughly. Caution is nevertheless called for: with heart or circulatory conditions, other pre-existing conditions or a cold, a visit to the sauna should be cleared with a doctor beforehand.
Bio sauna
Considerably cooler, damper and therefore suitable for beginners too is the bio sauna. Its temperature is only 45–60 degrees, and the relative humidity occasionally reaches 100 % but as a rule lies at 45–55 %. Aromatic infusions are typical here, though thanks to the mild temperature they are not a must. The bio sauna is said to have a beneficial effect on the skin and on general well-being; because the strain is lower it is easier on the circulation, so no strict breaks are needed. All the same the stay should not be extended beyond 45 minutes.
Infrared sauna
As well known as it is popular is the infrared sauna or cabin. It is not as strenuous for the circulation as the first two variants: instead of damp heat, infrared rays generate a warmth of 35–50 degrees — a so-called deep warmth that heats the body from the inside out and thus stimulates sweating. There are no infusions here. The infrared cabin is valued above all for promoting circulation; classically it is also used for muscular tension and joint complaints.