What is a Finnish sauna?
The traditional Finnish sauna is also called a dry sauna, as it uses the power of dry heat.
Unlike steam baths, also known as wet saunas, the humidity and steam in Finnish saunas does not exceed 5-20%, and the maximum air temperature maintained in them is between 80-100ºC.
Structurally, this type of sauna is a wooden cabin equipped with benches located at different levels. The entire interior is made of wood, and in the center of the sauna there is a heater. On top of it is a container with stones that are heated to a high temperature.
The Finnish sauna in Lucky Bansko
As we mentioned at the beginning, Lucky Bansko aparthotel has a traditional and herbal Finnish sauna, which you can use completely free of charge as our guests.
The saunas are located in the SPA center at the hotel, they are lined entirely with wood with low thermal conductivity. In the center of the room there is an electric heater that heats the stones placed on it.
During your stay in Finnish saunas, you should sprinkle water on the hot stones, as they generate water vapor, which raises the temperature of the room to 80-100ºC.
How to use the Finnish sauna
Before visiting the Finnish sauna in our hotel you need to take a shower or bath.
You should enter the sauna wearing appropriate clothing, such as a swimsuit and bathrobe. It is a good idea to bring a sauna towel with you to lay on the wooden bench before sitting down.
Once you are comfortable and relaxed, you should pour water on the hot stones at regular intervals, as they help generate water vapor, which helps the temperature in the room reach the recommended high values.
The maximum time for using the Finnish sauna is up to 25 minutes, but our recommendation is to start by staying in the dry sauna for 5-10 minutes, then gradually increase the time.
To get the most out of your visit to the Finnish sauna, you can cool down in an ice room afterwards, as well as take a cold shower.
Benefits of the Finnish sauna
The benefits of visiting a dry sauna are as follows:
- Increases immune defense: The heat in a sauna induces a condition called “artificial fever.” This stimulates the immune system to produce more white blood cells and antibodies. Additionally, during your time in the sauna, your body sweats and expels accumulated toxins, which are among the main causes of various diseases.
- Reduces stress and tension: Under the influence of heat, the body releases endorphins (happiness hormones), which helps you shake off stress and tension and enjoy maximum relaxation.
- Detoxification: The high temperature in the sauna causes deep sweating and the harmful toxins accumulated in the body are naturally released.
- Cleanses the skin: Maximum sweating in the sauna opens pores and deeply cleanses the skin, removing dead skin cells and aiding cell renewal.
- Prevents fluid retention: Sweating not only helps detoxify the body, but also helps eliminate excess fluids. This in turn speeds up metabolism and aids in weight loss.
Last but not least, the heat in the sauna relaxes muscles and reduces joint pain. Regular sauna visits are highly recommended after intense workouts in the gym or after sports competitions.ровки във фитнеса или след спортни състезания.
Contraindications
Finnish sauna has many health benefits, including relaxation, detoxification, and skin care.
However, there are some contraindications that you should take into account:
- Cardiovascular diseases: The heat in the sauna causes a rapid heartbeat and dilation of blood vessels, which is why staying in it for people who have heart problems, hypertension, or arrhythmia is not recommended.
- Skin diseases: Some skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, and atopic dermatitis can be exacerbated by the high temperature in the sauna.
If you have a high fever, it is also a good idea to avoid staying in the sauna at least until you recover and recover.