General
Sauna is a Finnish word. It comes from the Finnish word of „savu”, meaning smoke. Despite of the origin of the name not the Finnish were the first ones to use sauna, but Aztec and Maya Indians. Finnish sauna temperature is about 90 to 100 °C with a humidity of 6 to 15 %. Due to its low humidity level it is also called dry sauna. Recommended duration of the stay in the sauna is 12 to 15 minutes two to three times a day.
Physiological effects of sauna:
- Heart rate increases from the normal rate of 65 to 75 pulse/minute even up to 100 to 150
- Diastolic blood pressure drops
- Blood supply of the skin is improved, as a result the body starts to sweat
- Mucosa excretion is stimulated in the respiratory passages
- Bronchial tubes are expanded, possible spasm relaxation and breathing may also improves
- Stimulates the body’s immune procedures
- Metabolism and endocrine gland function are improved
- Muscular system is relaxed
- Depth of the breathing is significantly improved
Finnish sauna is the most widely known and applied sauna type in Hungary. Finnish sauna has a history of more than two thousand years. Sauna premises are made of wood, in Finland until this day they are still heated up by using wood, but in the homes the electrical versions are also very popular. In Finland it is also common to cool down the hot body after a sauna treatment in ice-cold sea water or in the snow. After a sauna treatment it is extremely important to supplement the water and mineral substances lost during the sweating phase. Beneficial impacts of the Finnish sauna can be exploited the most if we spend sufficient time in the sauna. Sauna is not only good for the body, but also clears our spirit. There is no need to rush in the sauna, enjoy the nice warm air and the feeling that our body gets rid of its burdens. If we wish to boost the impact of sauna, use and exfoliating sponge for removing the devitalised epidemic cells from the skin. The impact of hot air can be further boosted by using essential oils (aroma-therapy cabin).
Interesting facts
According to ancient written records people participating at the sauna treatment were tapping each other with boughs in the hot room and they were pouring cold water on each other. Sauna played also a ritual role in the life our ancestors. Sauna treatment consists of the following four parts: 1. Shower (cleaning the body) 2. Sweating phase 3. Cooling phase 4. Relaxation phase