It is really a no-brainer to the Finnish people as to the benefits of a sauna so I’m going to share my opinion. I am half Finnish and grew up loving saunas. They were a part of our lives in so many ways. We did not have one in our home, but we knew many families who did and therefore visited those people often. It was just normal for us to bring our sauna stuff when going visiting. I’ve got so many stories of taking saunas with all different people. One story that sticks out as clear as if it were yesterday for me was at a home on lake superior some where in northern Michigan. I was maybe 10 or 11 years old and found myself in a sauna with some really old Finlanders (80’s or so). These guys loved it hot in there and wanted to see if I could take it. The temperature swelled to 275 degrees or so and I just sat there. I don’t know how long I lasted but it sure felt like forever. As I sat there I remember thinking to myself that if I could outlast them then I could probably do anything I ever set my mind to doing. I was the last person in that sauna that night and to this day know that my lesson is still true. I’ve carried that lesson into the custom swimming pool business here in southeast Michigan and found it to always be true. There is nothing I can’t do!
So back to the benefits of saunas, I have always felt better physically and mentally after a sauna. I also know that a lot can be found within myself when sitting and sweating out all those toxins. Most of my best thinking and answers come from saunas (or for me these day its steamrooms). Steamrooms are really the same principle just a wetter environment and far cooler temperatures.
Saunas are a great accent item to go along with a swimming pool especially if you don’t like hot tubs. The contrast of hot and cold is always invigorating. I’d be curious what other people think of the sauna vs steamroom debate? Weigh in if you have an opinion!