Sauna is an old tradition that has been appreciated all over the world for its health related and calming properties. The heat in a sauna varies significantly depending on the type and cultural origin, spanding from the dry heat in the Finnish sauna to the damp atmosphere in the Russian banya. We will deep dive into the different types of saunas, their characteristics, temperatures and tips to how you use them optimally to achieve maximal benefits from the different variants.
How hot is it typically in a sauna?
In traditional saunas the temperature is typically kept high to promote a deep sweat and relaxation. In a Finnish sauna for example the temperatures can reach between 80 and 100 degrees celsius. The high temperature combined with dry air creates an intensely hot environment, which is ideal for relaxation and detox. The warm atmosphere in the sauna also helps the skin to open up and get rid of toxins. The russian sauna experience is on the contrary often cooler with temperatures between 70-80 degrees celsius, whereas the german sauna often reaches 90 degrees.
The dry Finnish sauna
The Finnish sauna is known for its dry heat. The temperature in the Finnish sauna varies normally between 80 to 100 degrees celsius. Users throw water on the heated stones to raise the air humidity momentarily, which creates a "löyly" - a hot steam wave to increase sweat production. The traditional Finnish practice is also a social activity, where friends and family gather to enjoy the heat and relax together.
The german damp experience
In Germany "Aufguss" is a popular sauna experience, where a sauna-master pours aromatic water on the hot stones to create steam. The German sauna offers often a hotter experience than the Finnish, sometimes up to 90 degrees celsius but with higher humidity. This combination of heat and steam is known to cleanse the airways and improve breathing, which makes it a favorite among wellness-enthusiast.
The traditional russian sauna
The Russian sauna, known as "banya" , combines traditional high humidity with temperatures which are a bit lower than the Finnish and the German saunas, typically around 70-80 degrees celsius. In banya is often used a ‘venik’ - a bundle of birch- or oak branches - to improve the circulation and increase the feeling of the heat. This unique method of using natural elements enhances the sauna experience and contributes to a deeper relaxation and detox.
How long can you sit in a sauna?
The length of a sauna visit can vary but it is generally recommended to stay in the sauna in 15-20 minutes at a time. It is important to listen to your body and leave the sauna, if you feel uncomfortable. It is recommended to take breaks and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. For new users it can be a good idea to start with short sessions and gradually increase the time, as and when the body is getting used to the heat.
How hot is the sauna at Plugin?
The sauna at Plugin differs from many modern saunas by using the traditional wood burning heating. This classic method creates a unique and authentic sauna experience. The heat generated by burning wood which gives a more natural and smooth heat distribution. The temperature in this wood burning sauna is typically between 70 and 90 degrees celsius which is ideal for a deep and comfortable sauna experience.
The use of wood for heating, adds an extra dimension to the sauna experience at Plugin. The gentle crackle and the characteristic smell of wood contributes to a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
Saunagus at Plugin also focuses on so many other factors than just the sauna, where the community and social aspects play a big role. It also depends on the facilitator how intense the heat will be or hot high the heat spikes will get during a session.
