Sauna bathing is a millennia-old tradition that benefits both the body and the soul. But how do you do it right, especially if you are a sauna beginner? In this article, you will receive valuable tips for a safe and relaxing sauna visit. Whether it's about the right preparation, the actual sauna session, or tips for cooling down – here you will learn everything you need to know.
Article Overview: Sauna Tips
- Why is sauna bathing so healthy?
- Preparation for the sauna visit
- Which sauna is right for me?
- Correct sauna use - How long should sauna sessions last?
- What is an infusion and how does it work?
- How should I behave while using the sauna?
- When and how should I cool down?
- The relaxation phase after the sauna session
- Are there risks associated with sauna use?
- 5 Sauna Tips for Beginners
1. Why is sauna bathing so healthy?
The visit to a sauna can have various health benefits. Sweating stimulates the metabolism and opens the pores of the skin. In addition, regular sauna use can positively affect the immune system, strengthen the body's defenses, and get the circulation going.
2. Preparation for the sauna visit
Before entering the sauna, it is important to thoroughly clean your body. Dry skin sweats better. Additionally, you should avoid large meals two hours before your sauna session. Going to the sauna on an empty stomach unnecessarily strains your circulatory system.
3. Which sauna is right for me?
There are different types of saunas: Finnish sauna, steam bath, bio sauna, and many more. Beginners should start with a milder form and gradually increase. The Finnish sauna is very hot and therefore not suitable for everyone. Humidity also plays an important role; some people prefer higher humidity, while others appreciate the dry heat of the Finnish sauna.
4. Correct sauna use - How long should sauna sessions last?
A sauna session should last 8 to a maximum of 15 minutes. The duration can vary depending on personal feelings, but it is advisable to leave the sauna no later than 15 minutes. Beginners should sit on the lower benches and end the sauna session after eight to twelve minutes.
5. What is an infusion and how does it work?
A infusion consists of water and essential oils that are poured onto the hot sauna stones. This increases the humidity in the sauna cabin, intensifying the effects of the sauna. Infusions can have different effects, ranging from refreshing and cooling to warming and invigorating.
6. How should I behave while using the sauna?
Hygiene is very important in the sauna. For hygienic reasons, you should always place a towel underneath. Additionally, it is advisable to maintain a certain distance from your neighbors. Speaking should only be done in hushed tones, as the sauna is a place of peace and relaxation.
7. When and how should I cool down?
After leaving the sauna, cooling down is an important step, just like thoroughly drying off. A cold shower or a bath in cold water is ideal for constricting the blood vessels again. A warm foot bath can also help with cooling down. Afterwards, fresh air is beneficial to get the circulation going again.
8. The rest period after the sauna session
After cooling down, the rest phase follows. It is important to give the body time to recover. This phase should last at least 20 to 30 minutes and ideally be spent in a lying position. During this time, drink enough fluids to compensate for the fluid loss due to sweating.
9. Are there risks associated with sauna use?
Generaly, sauna use is healthy for most people. However, there are exceptions: people with certain health issues such as cardiovascular diseases or a cold should avoid the sauna. It is also advisable to refrain from visiting the sauna when consuming high amounts of alcohol, as alcohol dilates blood vessels and puts a strain on the circulatory system.
10. 5 Sauna Tips for Beginners
- Begin with a milder form of sauna and gradually increase the intensity.
- Stay no longer than 15 minutes in the sauna.
- Always use a towel as a base.
- Cool down thoroughly after the sauna session.
- Spend enough time in the rest phase.
Summary
- Sauna bathing has many health benefits, from boosting metabolism to strengthening the immune system.
- The right preparation and selection of the sauna are crucial for a positive sauna experience.
- The duration of the sauna session, the correct behavior in the sauna, and the subsequent cooling and resting phase are other important factors.
- Although sauna use is generally considered safe, there are certain risk groups that should avoid the sauna due to the strain on the body.
With this information and tips, you are well prepared for your first sauna visit. Enjoy the soothing effects of the sauna on body and soul!
