How to Experience the Authentic Sauna​

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In Finland, a sauna session means several rounds of alternating between hot and cold. First you sweat it out in the heat, then you go out to cool off - either by just standing in the cool air, or by showering, bathing or even rolling in the snow. Once you've cooled down, you go back into the sauna! There is no limit on how many rounds you can do, listen to your body. Allow at least an hour and a half for a complete experience.  That is the simple explanation.  Learn more @: 

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​Before Sauna

Your body will have a range of reactions when taking a sauna. Your pulse rate will increase. Your heart will pump more blood. On average you may sweat a pint. To prepare yourself for what’s to come, complete the following prior to your sauna session.

• Drink plenty of water

Because of the temperature and humidity, you will likely sweat a lot while sitting on the bench. To avoid dehydration, drink plenty of water (at least two more glasses than usual) a few hours before entering. Proper hydration will help your pores open up and will encourage your body to sweat even more, which is exactly what you want to happen. If you exit thirsty, you likely didn’t drink enough before so you’ll want to fix that for next time.

Do not drink alcohol before. This lowers your blood pressure and could make you dizzy.

• Rinse off in the shower

Take a warm shower just before your sauna session so you don’t bring any dirt in. It also helps to open your pores and relax your muscles. But remember to dry completely off to sweat more quickly.

• Have two towels handy

You’ll use one during and the other upon exiting.

• Remove all jewelry

This includes everything, especially necklaces, rings and earrings. The high temperature could heat the metal and burn your skin.

• Leave the tech behind 

Cellphones, smart watches, fitness trackers should all be left out. The warm environment can damage the hardware. Besides the point, you’re supposed to be relaxing!

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During Sauna

With those items checked off, you will be ready to sauna. But we have a few more tips to make sure you enjoy your session to the fullest.

• Start off with a short interval

For your first time taking a sauna, you won’t want to exceed 10 minutes. As you get more comfortable, you can increase the time but you should never exceed 30 minutes. Remember, you can always take cool off breaks by stepping outside then going back inside. You should immediately leave the sauna if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, nauseous or get a headache.

• Sit on a towel

You should always sit on a towel as the bench will become hot and its keeps the bench clean.

• Relax!

It may seem hard to unwind for such a short stint of time, but it’s possible. Try to breathe deeply and clear your mind of day-to-day stresses.

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After Sauna

You took a sauna, now what? Follow these simple steps to help your body re-adjust to your core temperature after your session.

• Cool off

According to Finnish tradition, it’s customary to jump right into a cold lake after the sauna. If you have that at your disposal, go for it! If not, a cold shower serves as a strong substitute. The objective is to bring your body temperature down to the normal range while improving blood flow.

You can also simply step out into cooler air to help bring down your temperature slowly.

• Put on loose, comfortable clothes

You may find yourself sweating even after you’ve left the sauna. It’s best to wear loose, breathable and comfortable clothing to help curb this.

• Drink more water and replenish electrolytes

Because of all the sweating, you lost a lot of fluids in your session and losing sodium in the process. Start drinking water as soon as you’re out to rehydrate. You can also consider an electrolyte-heavy drink. A salty snack is a good choice.
 

We hope these guidelines will help you get the most from your sauna.

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