Infrared Saunas
Choosing the Right Sauna
In the marketplace today, there are two distinct types
of saunas that provide the healing elements that they have been
traditionally known for: a far infrared sauna or the traditional Finnish
sauna. Both of these products perform the basics of sauna therapy by
cleansing the body from its perspiration. In the soothing heat, the pores
of the skin open up, releasing impurities from the body and leaving skin
re-toned and refreshed. Which one to choose? Let’s examine both types of
saunas available online today and determine which one best suits your needs.
The far infrared type of sauna has been around since the mid-1960s.
Using modern technology, heat is generated by ceramic heaters converting
most of the energy supplied into infrared thermal heat waves. This type of
heat wave is a natural form; similar to the heat waves we receive daily from
the sun. The radiant heat produced warms objects without heating the
atmosphere around the objects. This process of direct heating is known as
conversion. The light used cannot be seen without special lenses but the
energy produced is concentrated in such a way as to provide all the benefits
without the risk of burning or radiation exposure.
The traditional Finnish sauna is what everyone
pictures when the word “sauna” is mentioned. The steam and heat sauna has
been used for centuries by cultures such as the Russians, Native Americans,
Japanese, and, of course, the Finns. A small room or hut is used and
burning wood provides heat. After the fire is out and the smoke has
dissipated, the sauna is ready for use. Today, heaters supply the heat.
The famous steam is provided by water splashed onto highly heated rocks.
The steam evenly distributes the heat, which can reach 100 degrees Celsius.
Many health clubs and vacation spots offer traditional Finnish saunas as
part of their attraction. Now, people can enjoy a soothing sauna right in
the comfort of their own home. Both infrared and Finnish saunas are
available for home use.
Sauna Benefits
Both types of sauna offer sizeable health benefits for
the daily user. Using a sauna has long been considered to be helpful in a
variety of health problems such as weight control, high blood pressure, pain
reduction, increased immune system response, and improved skin condition.
Other benefits include stress reduction, decreased fatigue, better sleep,
and a peaceful, relaxed sensation. Both types of units can gain all the
benefits. However, some do not like the steam and extreme heat that Finnish
saunas provide. Also, many people cannot afford a sauna room in their
house. A portable infrared sauna can be the answer to this problem.
With infrared saunas, other benefits related to health can be gained.
Infrared saunas operate at a lower temperature, approximately 130 degrees.
That is compared with the 180 to 200 degrees generated by the heat and steam
in a traditional Finnish sauna. The lower temperature in the infrared sauna
is beneficial to those with certain chronic diseases such as lupus,
rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and some forms of cancer. The direct
heat on the body from the infrared heaters helps loosen fat cells and toxins
escape the body more abundantly. Some of the toxins released by the infrared
heat include: sodium, cholesterol, cadmium, lead, nickel, and mercury. The
body eliminates most of these toxins simply by sweating but in daily life,
the process can be too slow. FIR heat technology stimulates the sweat glands
and speeds up the natural processes that cleanse and detoxify the body.
Steam saunas such as the Finnish sauna raise the
temperature of the surrounding air so that within the sauna some people have
difficulty breathing. This may be considered an advantage for those young
with healthy lungs. The steam helps release toxins and potentially harmful
viruses from the lungs. But for those with problems breathing, a steam
sauna could worsen the condition. The infrared saunas heat the body
directly without effecting the surrounding environment. The body still
releases the toxin-laden perspiration without aggravating breathing
problems. The infrared process also results in a lower energy bill while
the system produces deep penetration of the skin.
Sauna Location and Placement
Space available to place a sauna is a major
consideration when thinking of purchasing a sauna. Finnish saunas generally
need a large area to place the cedar-lined room with enough room to provide
for benches that seat at least four people. Also, you must make sure that
the room in which the sauna is to be placed is waterproof and has the
necessary electrical connections so that the heater can operate safely.
Sizes of units can be made to order and the design made especially for your
project. Pre-built kits are available online at an affordable price to help
you create a perfect Finnish sauna within or outside of your house.
Professional installation can be arranged for those that need such.
Some infrared saunas are portable and require little set-up time and
placement is easy. Even people that live in an apartment can enjoy a
relaxing sauna bath within their living space. Clean up is also easy since
most units fold into small packages, capable of being stored in a closet or
behind furniture. But, most of all, the best advantage to an infrared sauna
is the price. You can obtain a system for a reasonable amount of money and
be able to take it with you in case you decide to move.
Purchasing a Sauna
Having looked at both types of saunas, you may have decided which one
is right for you. If not, consider the advantages of each and decide which
one provides for your needs the best. Both Finnish and infrared saunas are
available over the Internet. Most are offered at very competitive prices and
in many cases, delivery can be free in most areas. Payment is easy with most
dealers online accepting all major credit cards. In some cases, dealers may
arrange financing for those that qualify. When purchasing your new sauna,
check out the accessories and supplies available for the operation of your
system. Many websites offer newsletters by subscriptions that offer helpful
advice and tips for new sauna owners.
About the Author
David Kelly is a successful author and business owner, who enjoys
providing informative tips and guides to consumers when shopping for
steam saunas,
far infrared saunas, and
hot tubs. He has been published worldwide in four different languages,
and is a #1 New York Times best selling short story writer.
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