How to Bathe in a Sauna

Saunas are small buildings with stone fireplaces inside of them and a small roof vent at the top. Water is applied to the hot rocks and the steam that is generated becomes contained within the building, creating a warm, relaxing environment. The primary benefit of sauna bathing is the opening of your pores and production of sweat, which has a cleansing effect. Additionally, dirt and bacteria can be washed out of skin pores easier when they are open.

Instructions

• 1

  Take a shower without using any soap. Use comfortably warm water and soak your body and hair for a few minutes.

• 2

  Sit on the upper bench of the sauna, placing a small towel underneath you as a seating pad.

• 3

  Lay back and rest your head and back against the wall of the sauna. Remain in this position for at least 5 minutes, allowing your body to absorb the heat and moisture.

• 4

  Apply water to the rock fireplace to adjust the moisture level of the air. The more steam generated, the hotter the temperature will feel.

• 5

  Leave the sauna while the steam generates and take another shower, without using soap or shampoo. This shower will remove the sweat and oils released from your open pores during the initial heating session.

• 6

  Re-enter the sauna and lie in a comfortable position for as long as you wish. In addition to skin benefits, saunas also increase blood circulation and induce relaxation. Some people will stay in the sauna for an hour or more, depending on their tolerance for steam and heat.

• 7

  Exit the sauna when you are ready, taking a final shower where you can use soap and shampoo if you wish. This final shower will primarily remove all the sweat from your body. However, by applying soap and shampoo to the pores while they are still open from the heat, you will also be performing a deeper cleanse. Pat yourself dry and turn off the sauna when complete.