What is a steam bath?
At first glance, a sauna and a steam room look quite similar. Both are enclosed spaces with comfortable benches for sitting.
The difference between sauna and steam bath is in the temperature and humidity of the air:
- Saunas have air temperatures of up to 80-100° C, and the humidity level is only between 5 and 10%. This is the so-called dry heat.
- Steam baths have air temperatures of up to 45-48° C and the humidity level is close to 100%.
It is this high humidity that brings many health benefits, which is why the steam bath is preferred by a large part of our guests.
Steam baths have a relaxing effect, open the pores and remove toxins from the body. They are a gentler method than the sauna due to the lower temperature (48 degrees Celsius).
Of course, we should not forget that the high humidity in the steam bath can put an additional strain on the body.
The steam bath in Lucky Bansko
The steam baths of the Lucky Bansko aparthotel are located in the hotel’s SPA center. The rooms are closed and have seating and relaxation areas.
The steam is generated by a special generator that provides hot steam and a humid environment.
Additionally, aromas are injected into the baths, which complement the effect of the steam and heat.
How to use the steam bath
To enjoy your stay in the steam bath of Lucky Bansko, it is a good idea to take a shower beforehand. Your body should be clean of oils, perfumes, creams and makeup.
You usually enter the steam bath in a swimsuit or with a towel. Once you enter the room, simply find the most comfortable place to sit and enjoy the warmth and moisture.
The recommended stay in the steam bath is about 10 to 15 minutes, but if this is your first visit, you can stay for less time.
After you leave the room filled with warm steam, it is a good idea to cool your body down to remove excess heat from it. We recommend that you take a cool or even warm shower so that your body does not experience shock from the sudden change in temperatures.
Don’t forget to drink water to compensate for the sweating of the body.
Benefits of visiting a steam bath
The health benefits of a steam bath are numerous, but here we will list the main ones.
Helps reduce stress:
Visits to a steam room can reduce cortisol levels (a hormone that is released when stress increases) and make you feel much calmer than before.
The heat in a steam room or sauna can help the body increase the release of endorphins (the hormone of happiness), which further helps relieve stress and anxiety.
Improves blood circulation
Staying in a steam room improves circulation and stimulates blood flow, which improves skin elasticity. Another effect is that it normalizes blood pressure and improves cardiovascular health.
Strengthens the immune system
Regular use of steam baths strengthens the immune system and protects the body from viruses and seasonal colds. It has been proven that exposing the body to the heat of water vapor stimulates leukocytes in the body, and it is leukocytes that actively fight viral infections.
Helps reduce muscle pain
According to a study conducted in 2013, staying in a steam room or sauna immediately after a hard workout can help reduce muscle and joint pain by relaxing the nerve endings in the muscles.
Removes toxins and cleanses the skin
The combination of warm steam and moisture causes the body to sweat. This means that just 10-15 minutes in a steam room can rid your body of harmful toxins, releasing them through sweat.
In addition, steam helps open pores, cleanses the skin of impurities, improves blood flow throughout the body, and restores radiance and freshness to the skin.
Opens the sinuses
During a visit to a steam room, the warm moisture opens up the mucous membranes not only of the sinuses, but also of the lungs and throat. This helps to improve breathing, which is extremely beneficial if you suffer from chronic bronchitis or have a sinus problem.
Contraindications to the steam bath
Despite the benefits, steam baths are not suitable for everyone.
People with heart problems, pregnant women, people with hypertension, as well as those who suffer from severe respiratory diseases should consult a doctor before visiting steam baths.