HEALTHY HEAT

THE BLISSFUL BENEFITS OF ADDING A SAUNA

Imagine … after a tiresome day, you step into your bathroom, and in addition to the usual shower or bath, you enter a world of warmth, relaxation and rejuvenation. Welcome to the world of home saunas! These cozy spaces of tranquility have been used for centuries for their health and wellness benefits. 

How does a sauna work?
At its core, a sauna is a room or enclosed space designed to reach high temperatures, typically between 150° and 195°F. This is achieved by heating a special sauna stove or heater, which, in turn, warms up the air inside the sauna. The heat produced is usually dry, but there are also steam saunas that produce a more humid environment.

Saunas work on the principle of inducing a controlled hyperthermia, an increase in body temperature. When you step into a sauna, your body starts to sweat as a natural response to the heat, which helps regulate your body temperature and flush out toxins through your skin. This process not only cleanses your body but also relaxes your muscles and relieves stress. In addition to the dry heat, some saunas are Finnish-style, which use rocks that can be splashed with water to create steam and can enhance the benefits of the sauna.

What are the benefits of saunas?
The allure of saunas extends far beyond just relaxation and comfort. 

• Stress relief. Saunas offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life – creating a warm, soothing environment that can help reduce stress and boost mental health.
• Muscle relaxation. The heat in a sauna helps relieve muscle tension, making it an excellent post-workout recovery tool to help eliminate the discomfort of sore muscles and joint pain. A sauna may also be helpful for alleviating chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia.
• Improved circulation. The increased heat in a sauna causes your blood vessels to dilate, which enhances blood flow and contributes toward better cardiovascular health.
• Detoxification. Sweating in a sauna helps your body eliminate toxins and impurities through your skin. 
• Skin health. Regular sauna sessions can improve the condition of your skin and work toward gaining a glowing complexion by promoting circulation and opening pores. 
• Better sleep. Sauna sessions can promote relaxation, making it easier for you to fall asleep and enjoy a deeper, more restful slumber.
• Weight loss. While saunas are not a magic solution, they can aid in temporary water weight reduction through sweating. It’s important to combine sauna use with a healthy lifestyle for lasting weight management.
• Respiratory benefits. Steam saunas can be helpful for individuals with respiratory issues, as the humid environment can ease congestion and improve breathing.

Please note that this is not medical advice. It is always best to talk to your doctor before starting any new health practice.

Adding a sauna in a bathroom
Integrating a sauna into your bathroom renovation can transform this functional space into a wellness sanctuary. Here are a few key considerations:

• Space. Assess your bathroom’s available space. Saunas come in various sizes, from compact one-person units to larger models for multiple users.
• Ventilation. Proper ventilation is crucial to ensure the moisture generated in the sauna doesn’t damage your bathroom, so discuss this element with your contractor. 
• Power supply. Saunas require a dedicated power source due to the high temperatures they reach. Make sure your electrical system can handle the load, and consult a licensed electrician if necessary.
• Materials. Choose sauna materials that complement your bathroom’s aesthetics and ensure they are moisture-resistant to withstand the humid environment.
• Safety. Install safety features such as a timer and temperature control to regulate your sauna sessions. Proper insulation and fireproofing are also essential for safety.

Remember that consulting with professionals and adhering to building codes and safety regulations are essential when incorporating a sauna into your bathroom renovation project.

Options to consider
When it comes to home saunas, you have an assortment of options to choose from depending on your preferences and available space: 

• Traditional Finnish sauna. This is the classic dry-heat sauna with wooden benches and a stove. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer high temperatures and dry heat. 
• Infrared sauna. These saunas use infrared heaters to heat your body directly, rather than the surrounding air. They operate at lower temperatures than traditional saunas and are well-suited for those who canʼt tolerate extreme heat. 
• Steam sauna. These saunas generate moist heat by pouring water onto hot stones, creating steam. They provide a more humid environment and can be gentler on the respiratory system. 
• Portable sauna. If you have limited space or want a cost-effective option, portable saunas are available. They are easy to set up and can be stored when not in use. 
• Custom-built sauna. For a truly personalized experience, consider a custom-built sauna that matches your bathroomʼs design and size requirements. 

Adding a home sauna to your bathroom can bring an array of physical and mental health benefits, whether youʼre seeking relaxation, pain relief, detoxification or improved sleep. With planning, you can seamlessly incorporate a sauna into your bathroom renovation project, transforming it into a space that promotes well-being and rejuvenation. Help make your home a relaxing respite from the stressors of life! ✦