HOW TO TAKE A BATH AT A FINNISH SAUNA

Sauna bathing is intended for relaxation, so rushing does not make any sense. It consists of three phases: warming, cooling and rest. All three phases are important in order to achieve the maximum effect for which your body and mind will be grateful.

Inside the sauna, it is recommended to be naked and without jewellery, wrapped in a suitable towel from a natural material.

Good hydration is important therefore it is recommended to drink plenty of water before, during and after bathing.

Clean skin is not only important for hygiene. Removing dead skin and dirt offers easier sweating and increases other positive effects of the sauna.

Wipe the body dry, to start sweating faster and to prevent skin lesions from burns.
It is recommended to use two towels. One inside the Sauna, the other outside the sauna (wiping and laying on).

In case of cold feet, warming up your feet will speed up the circulation and enhance sauna effects. Use massage or the hot bath if available.

Safety first! Gradual warming is recommended. First, on the bottom bench (in the seat or on the lying position) and then on the upper bench.
It is recommended that you are not alone in the sauna. When using for the first time, check the location of the help button.

Pouring water on the stones increases the humidity in the room and also the feeling of higher temperature.
High humidity increases the effectiveness but also the possibility of skin lesions, so be careful. It is recommended that this is done only by the experienced or in the presence of experienced sauna users.

After the pouring water on the stones and increasing humidity, the heat shock is very intense. Recommended time for bathing; not more than 3-5 minutes.

Fast cooling down is important in order to prevent unnecessary loss of bodily fluids but it needs to be performed according to the experience of the user. It offers additional health benefits but also brings some risk for users with unstable heart conditions.

Intense cooling down with a cold tub is recommended for experienced users only.

Resting and hydration are important! Extreme heating and cooling the body is like a form of vigorous exercise. Therefore, the rest between phases is highly recommended. The general recommendation is that you should rest for as much time as you previously spent in the heat. Drinking water or tea is recommended.

You can repeat the protocol from No 6 to No 11 several times to increase the effects (usually, three times is recommended).