How to Use a Sauna?

Whether you’re new to sauna use or a seasoned enthusiast, knowing how to properly use a sauna can enhance your experience, making it both relaxing and beneficial to your health. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your sauna sessions.

Before stepping into your sauna, it’s important to prepare both your body and the space for the experience. Start by hydrating yourself. The heat from the sauna causes you to sweat, and staying hydrated is essential for your comfort and health. A glass of water or a hydrating beverage before your session will ensure you stay refreshed.

Next, make sure your sauna is properly heated. If you’re using a Harvia electric or woodburning sauna heater, allow it to reach the ideal temperature of 70-90°C (158-194°F). This typically takes around 20-30 minutes for most saunas. Harvia heaters are known for their efficiency, ensuring you can get the best heat for your relaxation.

When entering the sauna, be mindful of the temperature. Start with shorter sessions – around 10 to 15 minutes – if you’re new to sauna use. Over time, you can gradually increase the duration as your body becomes accustomed to the heat.

If you prefer, you can wear a towel or sauna attire. However, it’s important to avoid wearing anything too tight or restrictive, as it can affect your body’s natural perspiration process.

In a traditional sauna, you’ll typically find different bench levels. The higher the bench, the hotter it gets, as heat rises. If you’re looking for a hotter experience, sit on the top bench. For a more moderate temperature, take a seat on a lower bench.

In Sauna Specialist saunas, the bench design is crafted for comfort, with enough space to stretch out and fully relax. You can use the bench to sit back, close your eyes, and unwind.

For many sauna enthusiasts, adding a touch of humidity to the heat enhances the experience. This is often referred to as the “löyly” (pronounced “luh-yuh”), a Finnish term for the steam created when water is thrown onto the sauna stones.

To create löyly, you can use a sauna ladle to pour water onto the heater rocks of your Harvia heater. The steam will instantly elevate the humidity and provide a softer, more intense heat. Harvia’s sauna heaters are designed to give off the perfect amount of heat to allow for optimal steam.

Once you’re comfortably seated and the heat and humidity are to your liking, it’s time to relax. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and enjoy the calming heat as it loosens your muscles and helps you unwind. Saunas are not just a place for physical relaxation – they’re a retreat for mental clarity too.

Take the time to de-stress and disconnect from the outside world. Enjoy the quiet, soothing environment of your Harvia sauna, and let the warmth do its work on your body and mind.

After your sauna session, it’s essential to cool down slowly. Some people prefer to take a cold shower or dip into a cold plunge pool to invigorate the body and close the pores. Others may simply enjoy sitting in a cool room or resting in a relaxed position to let the body return to its normal temperature.

Don’t forget to rehydrate after your sauna session. Your body has lost fluids through sweat, so it’s important to replenish with water or an electrolyte drink to maintain balance.

For maximum benefits, try to incorporate sauna sessions into your weekly routine. Most sauna enthusiasts enjoy using the sauna 2-3 times a week, but some may prefer more frequent sessions depending on their health and personal preference. Regular sauna use can help improve circulation, relieve stress, and promote muscle relaxation, making it an excellent addition to your wellness routine.

Using a sauna is a wonderful way to relax, detoxify, and improve overall wellness. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the full benefits of your sauna sessions, whether you’re looking for relaxation, stress relief, or a health boost. With Harvia’s top-quality sauna heaters and accessories, you can transform any space into your personal wellness retreat.