7 Things You Need to Know Before Trying a Saunas

Are you considering trying out a sauna for the first time? Or perhaps you are a seasoned user. It’s certainly an experience like no other, offering relaxation and wellness benefits that can rejuvenate you after a long day. However, before you step into the sauna, these 7 tips to maximise the benefits of saunas are important to remember.

Wear the Right Clothing

It might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be amazed at how often people overlook the importance of wearing the right attire in a sauna. Wearing inappropriate clothing in a sauna can lead to discomfort, burns, and even health risks like dehydration or overheating.

So, always opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, and steer clear of synthetic materials that can trap heat and moisture.

Keep Hydrated

In a sauna, it’s crucial to drink fluids to replace the ones you lose through sweating. This helps lower the risk of heat stress, keeps your body functioning normally, and enables you to achieve all the health benefits of the sauna.

Maintain Hygiene

Regularly cleaning of saunas and ensuring proper maintenance is also very important. Using a sauna that is not properly cleaned exposes your body to numerous risks, including infection, respiratory problems, and skin irritations.

If it is your own home sauna, clealry it is easy for you to take responsibility for regular cleaning and maintenance.

If you are using the sauna at a gym, for example and you are concerned about cleanliness, report it to the manager as it may be putting many people at risk of infection.

Don’t Bring Electronics in a Sauna

Using electronic devices like smartwatches and AirPods in the sauna is not recommended for several reasons. Firstly, the heat and humidity may damage the electronics. Additionally, having electronic devices with you can disturb your relaxation experience.

Don’t Wear Metal Jewellery

Before stepping into the sauna, it’s essential to take off any jewellery such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. This precaution helps prevent them from getting too hot and potentially burning your skin.

Duration

In the sauna, starting your session anywhere between 15-20 minutes is a good idea. However, it’s essential to note that individuals with certain health conditions should limit their sauna.

Anything beyond that may result in discomfort or adverse effects.

Cool Down Properly

In the sauna, cooling down afterward allows your heart rate and blood pressure to gradually return to pre-sauna levels, promoting relaxation and overall well-being.

Benefits of Using Saunas

The above tips will certainly help you maximise the benefits of using saunas. You’ll certainly find it a relaxing experience, but saunas offer a range of health benefits, including improved appearance, mood, and circulation. They promote relaxation and detoxification through sweating, aiding in toxin removal. Saunas can enhance cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate and blood flow.

Regular use may boost the immune system and improve sleep patterns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you are using a home sauna or one at your local gym, it can be a wonderful experience with numerous relaxation and wellness benefits. However, it’s essential to be well-prepared and informed before stepping into the sauna.

Remember to wear appropriate clothing, stay hydrated, maintain hygiene, avoid bringing electronics or metal jewellery, and be mindful of the duration of your session, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

By following these guidelines, you can maximise your sauna experience and reap its many rewards for your body and mind.

Image credit: Photo by Max Vakhtbovycn