Sauna, the Power of Heat

When you want to indulge in a moment of sheer well-being and eliminate toxins from your body, a favorite option is certainly the traditional sauna, which is one of the most popular spa treatments in the world. Today saunas are found in practically all spas and fitness centers. Thanks to its characteristics, the sauna is able to stimulate the body, improve circulation and boost the immune system. Currently, however, a new sauna concept — the infrared sauna — is gaining ground. There are clearly differences between the two. People who use the traditional Finnish sauna know how difficult it sometimes is to endure the excessive heat inside for a long period. That difficulty does not occur in the infrared sauna: this full immersion of dry heat provides pleasant sensations of well-being and relaxation very similar to the feeling one has in the summer while sunbathing. The rays produced inside the space heat the body without excessively increasing the air temperature in the room, and the body is able to absorb more heat than in a traditional sauna. The benefits are the same but at a much lower temperature (about 60° C) and without the need to interrupt the session for a cold shower every 10 to 15 minutes. The result is an overall improvement of one’s psycho-physical health, more radiant skin and incredibly shiny hair. It should be pointed out that the benefits obtained in a classic sauna through perspiration that purifies the body in depth by removing toxins are different from those of an infrared sauna. It is no coincidence that habitual users of the traditional sauna rarely have colds and seasonal illnesses in the winter. 

People who want a new experience in a traditional sauna should try the Aufguss, which means a gust of steam. This genuine ritual of wellness, purification and relaxation is performed by a person called the Aufgussmeister, or sauna master. The ritual involves pouring water mixed with essential oils on hot stones placed on top of the grate: when steam is produced, the Aufgussmeister skillfully sends it towards the client by making rhythmic movements with a towel, which causes an intense and enjoyable multisensory experience. In conclusion, whether we are inside a traditional or infrared sauna, we transform this experience into an occasion for physical and also spiritual purification. It is a great moment of calm when you don’t have to think, concentrate or process things. Obviously, leave your smartphone in the locker.