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Sauna
By definition, a sauna is a special, insulated room that is built with softwood.
A bathing process, a sauna must consist of a heater that is capable of heating
the room to approximately 180° F, as well as stones that produce steam when
it is heated and also when water is poured over them. Often compared to a steam
bath, a sauna is a relatively dry experience that produces approximately 20
to 25% humidity levels.
Saunas have been used for over 1,500 years in the Nordic countries of Europe
and are the tradition form of bathing in Finland, where it has been used for
centuries. The earliest saunas were log buildings that consisted of an earthen
floor as well as a pile of rocks that was situated in the center of the room.
A wood fire would be started on the rocks and, once the rocks were sufficiently,
steam would be generated when water was tossed on the rocks. These early saunas
were, for the most part, built near a water source to allow for the easy transportation
of water into the sauna.
A sauna provides the body’s natural way of cleansing itself through perspiration
due to the presence of both dry and damp air. Often used as a social meeting
place in Finland, sauna is the only Finnish word found in the English dictionary
where it is translated as “bath” or “bathhouse.” Predominantly used as a place
to relax, the use of a sauna allows a person to find piece of mind in a relaxed
environment. Besides providing an environment where it is easy to achieve contentment,
sauna use also contains a number of important health benefits.
Saunas have a variety of health benefits that includes:
- Increasing the heart rate 50-75% in a single 10-20 minute session, which
produces the same metabolic result as physical exercise.
- Increases blood circulation as blood vessels become more flexible. This
is particularly true to blood circulation to the skin where blood flow rates
increases, so a natural result of sauna use is glowing, healthy skin.
- Produces a detoxifying capacity in the skin as the induced sweating provides
a comprehensive cleaning of the skin and sweat glands. As pores are open,
impurities are flushed from the body.
- Stimulates the immune system as the heat causes skin temperature and internal
body temperature to rise to the point where an artificial fever state is created
in the body. This fever state results in increased production of disease fighting
white blood cells, antibodies, and interferon.
- When used in conjunction with massage, sauna use loosens fatty tissue and
assists in the battle against cellulite.
- Relieves pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.
- Produces positive effects against respiratory problems like chest congestion,
bronchitis, laryngitis, and sinusitis.
- After physical exertion, sauna use relieves tired and strained muscles.
- Helps relieve mental fatigue and tension.
- Quickens pulse rate as to produce an effect similar to mild exercise and
cardiovascular workouts.
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