Posts tagged "Finnish sauna"

Taking A Look At The Sauna History

It has existed, in some form of another, for many years and has progressed drastically from its humble beginning of being a hole in the ground. Thanks to advanced technologies, there are easier and better ways of enjoying the warmth of a sauna. Originally, a hole was dug so that a whole tribe could fit inside, with a fire pit in the center and a roof made from anything that would cover the fire, prevent rainfall from getting in and retain the heat.

The Finnish sauna was used both as shelter and as living quarters during the cold winters. They did have fireplaces with chimneys and when hot water was poured over them it would generate intense heat. At times, in order to cope with the heat they would have to take off their clothes. Eventually, metal stoves with metal chimney flues replaced the fireplace and they were better at maintaining a regular heat of approximately 180 degrees, but temperatures of 200 degrees was not uncommon. The Finns did not use it as a fitness sauna; they used it for the therapeutic benefits and as a way to refresh their spirit, as well as a place where the ill were taken to be cared for and as a birthing location.

The mainstream acceptance of the sauna and its many benefits has resulted in many people owning or at least using a sauna on a regular basis. There are now public saunas available in most gyms or fitness centers throughout the United States. The sauna is so important to the Finns that they have them in most of their government buildings and in the House of Parliament.

Many people feel that sauna fitness has major health benefits and the many studies that have been done appear to back up those beliefs. It has been shown that individuals who regularly make use of sauna equipment get the flu and colds ten times less than those who do not. It has been shown to make immune systems stronger by using cold, humid and hot stimulants, as it is a natural reaction for the blood vessels of the skin and muscles to expand when exposed to the heat.

With the do-it-yourself kits, portable saunas and many other styles and types, owning and enjoying the many benefits of a sauna is much easier than ever before. One of the most popular is the infrared sauna, citing benefits such as helping to increase blood circulation and burning around 500 calories in a single 30 minute session. They have also been shown to reduce fatigue and stress as well as ease joint pain and stiffness. The fact that there are so many different choices means that you will be able to find one that fits your needs and lifestyle.