Finland is the birthplace of the steam bath/sauna.Moreover steam bathing is a tradition as finns consider saunas not as a treat but as a vital part of their culture.
The sauna culture in Finland is almost well established.Nearly all the homes in Finland are equipped with built-in saunas.People of every part of the world have recognised and adopted the sauna culture.
Due to the culture and etiquette differences, people of the world have different perceptions of the sauna. In recent times saunas have become very popular because of the advantages they offer. It’s well known that saunas are relaxing and can reduce stress, but they also provide some health benefits.
A traditional Finnish sauna offers a thorough cleansing of the body. Some people consider it the best natural skin treatment. It not only cleanses but also rejuvenates your skin from the inside out. Furthermore, Finnish sauna is a good work-out for your cardiovascular system.It can help give your immune system a boost while also providing the mental benefits; most people find it helps clear their minds.
Basically, the traditional Finnish dry sauna is a hot air bath in warm and very low humid condition. So steam bathers sweat a lot. Therefore, new comers will atleast take 2 – 6 weeks time to get adopted. This sweating will help you become accustomed to the relaxing process of dry heat bathing.
There is usually only dim lighting which lends to providing you with a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. The temperature is kept between 80?C and 110?C for the hot air bathing.
Moreover, it is a common practice among sauna bathers to make a vihta, which means that they tie together fresh birch branches with leaves and buckle themselves and their fellow sauna bathers with it. It is believed that usage of vihta improves blood circulation and also it has pleasing birch odour which helps in relaxation.
However, there are some precautions that you need to keep in mind. The hot air temperature in a sauna does lead to an increase in cardiovascular activity.Thus, for this reason dry saunas are not recommended for people who suffer from heart disease or other cardiovascular ailments.
You should consult your doctor before using a sauna if you have high blood pressure. The hot dry sauna is also not recommended for elderly, pregnant women and small children.
You should also avoid a sauna after a strenuous work out. Be sure you have given you body enough time to cool down before relaxing in the heat of a sauna bath. As long as you have taken these precautions under consideration and you are healthy enough, you should feel free to try a relaxing sauna bath.
The said benefits of the Finnish home sauna are authentic, emotional and physical. Post sauna experience makes you feel and look better. Your body becomes more efficient and you will be relaxed.
