Best practices in taking a sauna or steam

1. Allow sauna/steam bath to heat up accordingly. Be prepared to spend time to enjoy and relax, with no set length of time.
2. Always wait minimum of 1 hour after eating a large meal. Sauna can be taken anytime of the day. Usually in the morning to rejuvenate and invigorate, and at night to help relax and sleep.
3. Preheat the sauna, minimum of 10-15 minutes.
4. New users to the sauna/steam that are not accustomed to the temperatures should start at lower temperatures, until the body becomes more tolerable. Let the bodies endurance build over repeated sauna sessions.
5. Taking a sauna with as little clothing as possible is preferred. Allows the body to release heat, and allows penetration of heat. Jewelry should not be worn.
6. Any bathers with any medical conditions or disorders should always consult with their doctors.
7. Take a warm rinse or shower, to remove any deodorants, perspiration, and then enter the sauna and relax on the top level bench for 10 – 15 minutes. Lying down is total relaxation. The dry heat will increase the blood circulation and will eventually bring the body to perspire. Staying longer than 30 minutes is not recommended. Always go by what you body is telling you, this is a good recommendation of when enough is enough.
8. Once your done, leaving the sauna should be followed by a cool shower, which will close open pores, refresh and leave you invigorated.
9. Rest for 10-15 minutes to allow your body to cool down slowly, and then you may want to repeat the whole cycle again. If not, your ready for your day.
10. After the sauna, allow yourself 20 minutes to relax and cool down before dressing. A light snack and refreshing beverage will hit the spot. The body will need to replace the water and salts that were perspired during the sauna session.
11. The sauna is a great tool for those who suffer from tiredness, acne, sleeping, and tension or stress. Arthritis and rheumatism sufferers as well as muscle and joint aches from over exertion, will find the sauna heat very relaxing.

Note: supplied by Art of Sauna Building