Saunas have been used for centuries as a way to relax, rejuvenate, and detoxify the body. And while there are many different types of saunas available today, traditional saunas offer a unique and authentic experience that can't be found in infrared saunas. In this blog post, we'll going to explain why we chose a traditional sauna for Heart Based Healing Centre over an infrared one, and the many benefits they offer, which is not limited to sweating it out!
What is a Traditional Sauna
A traditional sauna is generally a wooden room or a cabin that is heated by a stove or heater. The heat source traditionally was wood-fired, but electric heaters are now most common. The heat is stored in rocks that are placed on top of the stove, and the rocks are responsible for creating the steam that fills the sauna. Traditional saunas are often made from Cedar, and we chose to go with Cedar because the smell is just divine and it just adds to the authentic experience. At Heart Based Healing Centre we generally heat the sauna to between 60-70 degrees at the point you enter but it will get hotter the longer you stay in the sauna.
Humidity Levels in Infrared versus Traditional Saunas
One of the main differences between traditional saunas and infrared saunas is the humidity level. Infrared saunas rely on the electromagnetic radiation from their infrared lamps or heaters which is why you’ll often hear of them called “dry saunas”. In traditional saunas/Finnish saunas you can pour water over the stones which creates steam and humidity. This makes the heat more bearable and significantly increases the amount you sweat.
Sweating it Out
Sweating it out in a sauna is great for you. Studies show that intense sweating could help reduce your levels of lead, copper, zinc, nickel, mercury and other toxins . A typical person typically sweats out about a pint during a short to medium length sauna visit! I have to say I’ve also found significant skin benefits from regular, traditional saunas and I’m convinced that’s also related to flushing out the toxins.
Benefits of Traditional Saunas
There are many other benefits to using a traditional sauna besides sweating. The heat from the sauna can help to dilate blood vessels, which can in turn increase circulation and oxygenate the body's cells. Additionally, saunas have been shown to relieve stress, relieve muscle pain, improve cardiovascular function, and even boost the immune system.
The Culture of Saunas
In many cultures, saunas also hold a deep cultural significance. In Finland, for example, saunas have been an important part of the culture for centuries. Finns use saunas for both practical and social reasons, such as to clean themselves, to relax and unwind after a long day, and to spend time with friends and family. Saunas in Finland are also considered to be a rite of passage and a way to connect with one's heritage.
We use our traditional sauna nearly ever day as a family. It’s a great way to relax and connect with each other. It really helps me to leave the day behind and is the start of my night time routine. I like to combine the sauna with a cold dip afterwards as the balance of intense heat then intense cold is really very good for the body – more on that in a later blog.
Authentic Traditional Saunas
Lastly a word about their authenticity. Traditional saunas offer a more intense sweat and a higher humidity level, but they also offer a deeper connection to the past and the cultural significance of saunas. They are not equipped with all the modern luxuries that many infrared saunas have, like LCD TVs or music systems. Instead, traditional saunas rely on the natural beauty of the wood and the heat to create a relaxing and rejuvenating environment. It’s a much greater soul and spirit experience, a time to reflect and a time to connect.
If you haven’t yet experienced a traditional sauna why don’t you come and visit Heart Based Healing Centre. Our sauna, spa garden can be booked by the hour and that includes the use of our sparkling in ground saltwater pool. Highly recommended!
