Saunas – A Long Global Tradition with Many Health Benefits

Most people associate saunas with the nations that circle the Baltic Sea. People in that area have been using sweathouses for many centuries. The first of these were pits dug into the sides of hills covered in wooden frames and hides.

People use them as living quarters during the winter months. The ground provided natural insulation and a fire in the middle provided heat. Over time, the people using these houses found that heating rocks over the fire provided a constant source of heat. When they sprinkled water over the hot rocks, the humidity brought the interior to a higher level of perceived heat. Higher humidity levels feel hotter to the human skin.

The people around the Baltic Sea were not the only ones to develop similar technology. Native North Americans developed sweat lodges many centuries ago. Ancient Romans had similar rooms available in their public baths.

Cultures in Central America such as the Aztecs and the Mayans used similar facilities for cultural ceremonies. People in Japan and Korea regularly went through sweat baths in special rooms. There are even similar facilities in the Middle East and Africa. While most people associate these rooms with Finland, there is a strong tradition around the world for this type of experience.

For those living in Finland, saunas are part of the social culture. Almost every home in the country has a sauna somewhere inside or outside. Neighboring countries to Finland such as Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Russia have similar traditions that remain strong today.

People use them year-round in these cultures. Even during the dark winters, it is very common to spend time in the heat and then go run around in the snow. People do this in their birthday suits. There are public ones available as well. In some of these countries, people of both sexes use public funds equally. In other countries, there are separate facilities available for each gender.

There are many benefits for people using saunas. It can provide relief to people with chronic lung issues such as bronchitis or asthma. It also helps improve joint flexibility in people with rheumatoid arthritis. It is safe for people of almost every age as long as they are in good health.

There are a few conditions where doctors do not recommend use. People that have serious heart disease have trouble with the high humidity levels. Consult your doctor before getting into one if you have any serious medical issues.