Saunas are specialized rooms that can be found in most homes and gyms. If you’ve ever had a sauna session, then you know that it can be a great way to relax and unwind.
Plus, it can even benefit your immune system, blood circulation, skin, and metabolism.
In this article, we’re going to talk about the best way to use a sauna so that you can get the most out of your experience!
Contents
- 1 Different Ways to Use a Sauna
- 2 How to Use a Sauna Properly
- 3 How Do You Start a Sauna Heater?
- 4 What is the Best Temperature and Humidity for Sauna Sessions?
- 5 How Long Does it Take for a Sauna to Produce Hot Air?
- 6 What to Wear When Using a Sauna?
- 7 How Often Should You Use A Sauna?
- 8 When is The Best Time of The Day For a Sauna?
- 9 Do You Pour Water on the Rocks in a Sauna?
- 10 8 Must-Know Tips to Get The Best Results from a Sauna Session
- 11 Things to Avoid When Using a Sauna
- 11.1 Find Your Limits And Never Push Yourself Too Hard
- 11.2 Never Enter A Sauna Or Steam Room With Wet Hair
- 11.3 Never Take A Shower After Getting Out Of The Sauna
- 11.4 Avoid Eating A Large Meal Before Using The Sauna
- 11.5 Don’t Use A Sauna If You Have Health Issues
- 11.6 Don’t Drink Alcohol If You Are Planning To Take A Sauna Session
- 11.7 Don’t Use Eucalyptus Oil Inside The Room
- 11.8 Avoid Using Perfumes Or Colognes Before Entering A Sauna
- 11.9 Refrain From Bringing Electronics
- 12 Key Takeaways
Different Ways to Use a Sauna
There are different ways to use a sauna, and each person will have their own preference.
Some people like to sit in the sauna for a while, while others prefer to move around. Experiment and find what works best for you.
Here are some of the most common ways to use a sauna:
Sitting In The Sauna
When sitting in a sauna, it is ideal to sit for around 15 minutes. This allows time for the human body temperature to rise and sweat to start forming on the skin. Once you feel like you are sweating, this indicates that all of the toxins have been removed from the body. You can then leave or stay for another 15 minutes.
Standing in the Sauna
When standing in a sauna, it is best to do so for around five minutes at a time. This will help you stay warm and avoid heatstroke. If you start feeling lightheaded or dizzy, sit down immediately or best to exit the area.
Moving Around the Sauna
If you are someone who prefers to move around, the sauna is a good place for you. You can walk around, do squats or lunges, or just shake your body to help sweat. Just be careful not to fall!
Preparations Before Using a Hot Sauna
Before you get started, there are some important steps to take in order to fully enjoy a sauna bath. The experience involves extreme physical and spiritual conditions which require careful preparation. Remember, saunas must not be rushed.
First of all, make sure that the sauna is clean and free from any dirt or debris. You should also check for cracks in the wood paneling as these can lead to burns if they’re not fixed immediately!
Next up is checking your body for any open wounds. If you have any cuts or bruises, it’s best to wait until they’ve healed before using the sauna. This is because such high temperatures can cause them to worsen.
Now that you’re all prepared, it’s now sauna time!
How to Use a Sauna Properly
When you’re ready to use the sauna, first make sure that it’s plugged in, turned on and the temperature is set. The next step is to get inside!
It’s important to know that you should sit still for at least 15 minutes. The first five are usually spent getting used to the heat, while the last 15-20 are when you can relax or meditate.
Once you’re settled in, it’s time to start enjoying the benefits of the sauna! Be sure to drink plenty of water before and during your session, as this will help to keep you hydrated. You may also want to bring a cotton towel with you to mop up any sweat.
It’s important not to stay in the sauna for too long. The American Sauna Society recommends no more than 15 minutes at a time. This is because staying in the sauna for too long can actually be harmful to your health.
How Do You Start a Sauna Heater?
Well, let’s start with how to turn on a sauna heater. First of all, you need to make sure it has power and is plugged in correctly at the wall socket. It should be easy enough for you to plug into your outlet using an extension cord if necessary. Once that is done, just flick the switch and it should start going.
What is the Best Temperature and Humidity for Sauna Sessions?
There is no best temperature for everyone. Generally speaking, you want to aim for heat between 150-180 F (65C). That is already considered high temperature, enough to produce sweat but not so hot that someone can’t sit comfortably in the sauna long enough!
Higher temperatures may result in discomfort and unwanted results so make sure to listen to what your body can handle. Saunas usually have high humidity, ranging from about 40%-50%.
How Long Does it Take for a Sauna to Produce Hot Air?
It typically takes about 15-20 minutes for a sauna to produce hot air, so be sure to give yourself enough time before you start sweating!
What to Wear When Using a Sauna?
Whenever you are fortunate enough to have a sauna, remove your clothes.
When you enter private saunas you can choose to wear bath suits or simply take off all your clothes.
However, if you go to the public sauna, you can wear a bathing suit and shower sandals.
Problem is that the fabric on swimwear is extremely insulated, so you’ll likely feel discomfort after spending some hours in it at high temperatures.
We recommend wearing cotton clothing as it absorbs sweat and helps your skin breathe.
Also be sure not to wear clothes that have a metal part because they will cause you to get hot, causing burnt skin. Another option is to wrap cotton towels around your body since they absorb sweat easily.
How Often Should You Use A Sauna?
This depends on many factors like age, health condition(s), time available for regular sauna use, etc. We recommend sauna bathing two to three times a week for optimal results.
The best way to use a sauna is to create a regimen and use it regularly.
When is The Best Time of The Day For a Sauna?
Most sauna users prefer to have their sauna routine in the morning or evening, but it can be used at any time of day. Just make sure you have enough time to relax and enjoy your sauna session.
Morning sessions can help get your day started on the right foot, while evening sessions can help you unwind after a long day.
Do You Pour Water on the Rocks in a Sauna?
There is no one right way to enjoy a sauna, but there are some general tips that can help you optimize its benefits.
For example, adding cold water to the rocks in a traditional sauna will create steam, which opens up your pores and allows your body to sweat out toxins.
Alternatively, if you are using a far infrared sauna, you can simply sit back and relax while the infrared rays work their magic.
8 Must-Know Tips to Get The Best Results from a Sauna Session
1. Before getting in, take a shower and thoroughly cleanse the skin. This will help open up pores and allow sweat to escape more easily.
2. Drink plenty of fluids before and during use to stay hydrated.
3. Stay in the sauna for no more than 15 minutes at a time to avoid getting too overheated.
4. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded or the moment you feel uncomfortable, get out of the sauna immediately and take some fresh air before trying again later!
5. When you’re finished using the sauna, make sure to thoroughly towel dry your skin and hair before putting on any kind of moisturizer or makeup. This is extremely important, as leaving the area wet can lead to an increase in bacteria and molds that may irritate your skin.
6. If you’re new to using a sauna, it’s best to build up tolerance gradually by spending less time inside each session. Try starting with ten to fifteen minutes and working your way up until you feel completely comfortable inside the sauna.
7. Wear a barebones bracelet during a sauna as it could heat your body.
8. Pay attention to your body’s response when using a sauna and adjust heat and duration accordingly for maximum benefit.
Things to Avoid When Using a Sauna
Saunas offer a wide variety of health benefits, but it’s important for users to know and recognize the mistakes they can make while using a sauna.
Some mistakes can make a person feel unsatisfied by the sauna experience and prevent their experience from being enjoyed.
It’s important that you follow the rules and health guidelines in order to use your sauna efficiently and effectively, as well as maintain safety at all times.
Find Your Limits And Never Push Yourself Too Hard
The maximum temperatures allowed in the American and Canadian sauna are 194F (90 ° C). Some European countries offer sauna rooms, where you may experience the effects at a much higher temperature.
However, studies show effects and risks, especially for novices or people who enjoy saunas for longer periods. If you think your temperatures are too high, you should adjust them.
Never Enter A Sauna Or Steam Room With Wet Hair
This can lead to severe burns, so it’s important that you either towel dry your hair before entering the area, use some sort of product like hairspray or gel if necessary. Make sure not to wear any kind of moisturizer on your skin, as this will also cause you to burn and causes pores to swell causing irritation of the eyes.
Never Take A Shower After Getting Out Of The Sauna
Using these methods you can easily clean up dust and dirt from your body and let the air flow freely through your pores. You can take your sauna for at least 15 minutes, then take an acoustic shower and return.
Avoid Eating A Large Meal Before Using The Sauna
Plan your meals ahead of your sauna session because as it can be difficult to digest food when the body is hot. After a large meal, your blood is sent back to your digestive tract for better nutrition and circulation.
Don’t Use A Sauna If You Have Health Issues
It’s best to consult with your doctor before using a sauna if you have the following, as the high temperatures can be dangerous and uncomfortable for those with pre-existing medical conditions.
• cardiovascular disease (such as advanced heart failure)
• high blood pressure or low blood pressure
• not exercising at the moment
• sick or elderly
• women who are pregnant or menstruating
Don’t Drink Alcohol If You Are Planning To Take A Sauna Session
The combination of alcohol and heat can be extremely dangerous, as it can cause your body to overheat very quickly.
Never use a sauna if you are currently taking medication
If you are using any kind of medication, it’s important to check with your doctor before entering a sauna. Some medications can react poorly when combined with the high temperatures and humidity found in a traditional sauna.
Don’t Use Eucalyptus Oil Inside The Room
Eucalyptus oil is often used as an additive in some sauna rooms and steam rooms, but it’s important to avoid this due to the fact that eucalyptus oil can actually cause lung damage in large quantities.
Avoid Using Perfumes Or Colognes Before Entering A Sauna
Many people enjoy wearing perfume when they enter a traditional sauna room, but if you do this be aware that the heat will cause the fragrance to become much stronger and can be quite overwhelming.
Refrain From Bringing Electronics
Please do not pack the smartphone – the phone’s keyboard or a book. Heat and moisture may damage computers and irritate the book’s cover.
Plus smartphone use has no legal effect on a sauna because light and heat interfere with the device. Most saunas have sound systems and you can listen to music when sweating and resting.
Key Takeaways
• Saunas also eases anxiety and let you relax by letting all the tension flow away as steam fills the room. It’s a great way to wind down from the day and let your mind rest as well.
• There are different ways to enjoy a sauna’s full benefits and the best way to use a sauna is to figure out what works well for you.
• One of the most important tips for proper sauna use is to stay hydrated by drinking water. Also, closely monitor your body’s reaction to the heat so you can adjust accordingly.
• Be sure to follow specific health guidelines and precautionary measures to use a sauna safely!
Don’t try to force yourself in using it. You want to use and enjoy a sauna experience that doesn’t seem right or comfortable
Not every person is going to love using the sauna and that is okay! The key is to experiment with different ways of using it until you find something that works for you.
There are plenty of health benefits to be had from using a sauna, so don’t give up on it if your first experience wasn’t perfect. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits a sauna has to offer.
If you like to learn more about saunas, just visit out homepage.