Stress off, relaxation on: In these cold temperatures, there really is nothing like a relaxing sauna session. No wonder saunas are one of the absolute wellness classics, as a visit to the sauna can sometimes work wonders. Tense muscles relax, the metabolism is stimulated, you really calm down and your mood is brightened - in short: saunas have a holistic effect on our body and mind. We'll tell you how to take a sauna properly so that you too can benefit from all these advantages.
Taking a sauna the right way: Here's how
The optimum procedure in the sauna
Shower before the sauna
Before the actual sauna session, it is important to prepare your body for the sauna. For this reason, you should cleanse your body with soap or shower gel in a refreshing shower to remove the skin's natural greasy film. Make sure you dry yourself thoroughly after showering, as dry skin sweats better afterwards.
Sauna session
Depending on your mood, it is advisable to have two or three sauna sessions. A sauna session consists of a heat phase in the sauna, a cooling phase and a final resting phase, which should last at least as long as the previous sauna session. But what should be considered in the individual phases?
Heat phase
When you enter the sauna, place a large towel on the chosen lounger area. Your feet should also not lie directly on the wooden benches. If you are a sauna beginner, it is advisable to approach the sauna slowly and start with mild temperatures (approx. 65°C). Beginners should also choose the middle and lower levels of the sauna cabin, as the temperatures there are more moderate. If you already have experience with saunas and want to really work up a sweat, the upper rows in the sauna are the best choice. However, one thing should always be borne in mind: You and your well-being decide how long the heat phase should last - the usual duration is 8 to 15 minutes.
Cooling phase
After the heat phase, in which you work up a good sweat, comes the second phase - cooling down. To do this, go out into the fresh air for a few minutes and cool down with cold water. It is important to remember that refreshment should always start at the feet and move towards the heart.
Rest phase
In the last phase of the sauna session, the resting phase, you feel the full effect of the sauna session. Take as much time as you want to rest, as the purpose of a sauna session is to relax the body. In any case, the breaks between infusions should be at least as long as the previous heat phase. It is a good idea to either get some sleep or read a good book to relax.
Further tips:
- When taking a sauna, make sure that you do not enter the sauna on an empty or full stomach.
- It is best to take a sauna unclothed.
- To avoid dizziness, you should get up from your lying position and sit down during the last two minutes of the heat phase.
- Only drink again after the last sauna session. Mineral water rich in calcium and magnesium is recommended.
- Plan enough time for the sauna and don't rush yourself.
Now nothing stands in the way of a relaxing sauna session! We wish you lots of fun - have a good time!