Taking A Steam Sauna Bath - What Is The Best Way?

First, it is good to understand the difference between the steam & sauna bath. Most people think of the heat in saunas as dry heat and the heat of steam rooms as wet, or humid heat. This distinction is only partly correct. Finnish sauna bathers splash water on the heated rocks in the sauna, which raises the humidity level to up to 40%. Without that, the hot air in a dry sauna can irritate the mucus membranes. Although, this should not be confused with the dry heat in a far infrared sauna.

In hydrotherapeutic traditions used in European and American spas, sweat therapy is used to prepare for a massage as a means of increasing the suppleness of the muscles while creating a deep sense of relaxation in the body and mind. Sweat treatments can also be enjoyed by themselves in the following ways:

As a deep-cleansing treatment for the body.
As a soothing, yet invigorating refreshment for the mind.
To boost the immune system.
And also as a workout for the cardiovascular system.

Sauna & Steam Baths - How Long To Stay In

You will generally want to limit treatment time to 10 to 15 minutes. Also drink plenty of water before and after the steam bath to replace fluids lost while in the sauna. Sweat glands are capable of secreting up to 30 grams of sweat per minute, which is almost one pint per 15 minutes. So dehydration is a very real possibility if you are not careful. Fatigue as well as other symptoms of dehydration can also occur with as little as 1% to 2% loss in body weight.

Your main priority is to enjoy the process. Don't try to push your body beyond its comfort level. The purpose is not to see who can sweat it out the longest, but to allow your mind and body to soak in the full benefits of the sauna or steam bath.

We Highly Recommend

Homeclick - Finnish Steam Saunas: Homeclick provides excellent pre-built steam or "Finnish" units from Mr Steam and Thermasol with Free Shipping and no sales tax (except for New Jersey residents).

Hammacher Schlemmer - Steam Barrel Sauna: High quality 2, 4, and 6 person barrel style saunas made from kiln-dried red cedar and stainless steel that can be used as either indoor or outdoor units.

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About The Author:

David Kelly is a successful author and contributor for http://www.sauna-hot-tubs.com: An informational source, buyers guide and review of the best sauna baths and other related products from leading manufacturers.

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