There are many different types of saunas on the market today. When most people think of a traditional sauna, in which water is poured over hot stones to heat it up and vaporize the air, what they think of is a steam sauna. These steam saunas heat the air inside to a temperature between 70 and 100 degrees Celsius, and maintain a relative humidity of the order of 20%.

Traditional saunas are a luxury product, in the same category and are often used after a bath in a jacuzzi. Finnish saunas have become much more affordable in recent times, and today they can sell for approximately $2500 in US dollars.

Traditional saunas are considered healthy investments, as the high temperature induces sweating, which is said to have many health benefits. In Finland, Finnish saunas are so popular that many people have noted that there are more steam saunas in the country than cars. Perhaps this is an exaggeration, but the popularity of Finnish saunas in certain countries such as Finland is not in doubt.

Steam saunas increase blood flow and also help burn calories. They are said to relieve back pain and arthritis symptoms as well. Scandinavian saunas are popular with sports medicine specialists who believe that their use will aid the athlete in the process of stretching and warming up for competition. Additionally, athletes may enjoy using a traditional sauna to relieve aches and pains experienced from a hard day of athletics.

Although a Scandinavian sauna is a pleasant and healthy way to relax and increase health and sense of well-being, moderation always needs to be kept in mind. Excessive use of a hot rock sauna can lead to heat stroke, dehydration, and can even be fatal in some severe cases. It is recommended to never use a steam sauna alone and to ensure the heating element is on a timer. Also, never use a traditional sauna when you are tired, as falling asleep while enjoying the sauna experience is not recommended.

There are other downsides to having a hot rock sauna as well. The heaters are incredibly inefficient and require a lot of energy to generate the necessary steam. Some traditional saunas require up to 10 kilowatts of power. Hot rock saunas can also be a breeding ground for mold and bacteria that love a humid environment. Steam sauna owners must clean them regularly to maintain the health benefits of a traditional sauna without endangering the health of its occupants.

There are also other options for a traditional sauna in order to minimize the inconvenience that comes with owning a sauna. A far infrared sauna may be an option to consider. Quickly gaining popularity in the US, they are often portable and much more energy efficient. They are also much more hygienic than steam saunas, as they do not provide the same type of breeding ground for mold and bacteria.

But whatever your choice of sauna, you’re sure to enjoy a relaxing and invigorating experience.