The discovery of steam bath or sauna was first in Finland.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. In fact every apartment/residence there has well built saunasThe sauna has now been adopted in every corner of the world.

Due to the culture and etiquette differences, people of the world have different perceptions of the sauna. The reason that saunas have become so popular recently is because more and more people are realizing their benefits. Apart from relaxation and stress reduction people have started to become aware of the other health benefits that saunas offer.

A traditional Finnish sauna offers a thorough cleansing of the body. It is also deemed to be the best natural treatment for the skin. It not only cleanses but also regenerates the activity of the skin from inside out.
In addition, the Finnish sauna provides a great cardiovascular work out.It is an immune system booster and provides gentle refreshment for the mind.

Essentially the finnish sauna is a hot air bath in warm and very low humid condition. Many people find that they sweat excessively while bathing. 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.

In a sauna the lighting is shady and the people usually prefer to sit in the sauna in silence and relaxed mood. A sauna’s temperature is usually kept between 80 and 110 degrees Celsius.

Furthermore, it is a common practice among sauna bathers to make a vihta, which means that they bind together fresh birch branches with leaves and belt themselves and their fellow sauna bathers with it. Many believe that using the vihta improves circulation and provides a pleasing aromatherapy effect which aids 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. As a result, people who have heart disease or other heart-related health issues should not use saunas.

You should consult your doctor before using a sauna if you have high blood pressure.  A hot dry sauna should also not be used by the elderly, pregnant women, and children.

You have to be careful if you have been working out; your body must be cool before it is exposed to the hot temperature of the sauna bath. These precautions ensure the requisite effects of sauna bath.

The aforementioned benefits of Finnish traditional home sauna are real, physical as well as emotional. After sauna experience you will not only feel but also look better. Your body will function very efficiently and most importantly you will be more relaxed.

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