Various saunas and the cold chamber at a glance.Was passt zu mir?
1. Finnish sauna
The Finnish sauna is the best known and most classic form of sauna. It originates from Finland and has a long tradition.
Characteristics:
- Temperature: 80-100 °C
- Humidity: 10-20 % (very dry)
- Material: Usually made of wood, often with benches of different heights.
- Infusions: Regular infusions with water and essential oils increase the humidity for a short time.
Effect:
- Promotes blood circulation and strengthens the immune system.
- Supports the relaxation of muscles and joints.
- Stimulates the metabolism and detoxification of the body through sweating.
The Finnish sauna is particularly suitable for people who tolerate high temperatures and dry heat well.
2. steam sauna (steam bath)
The steam sauna, also known as a steam bath, differs greatly from the Finnish sauna due to its warm and humid atmosphere.
Characteristics
- Temperature: 40-50 °C
- Humidity: Almost 100 % (very humid)
- Material: Often tiled, with stone or ceramic seating and sunbathing areas.
- Special feature: The warm steam is usually enriched with herbal fragrances.
Effect:
- Ideal for the respiratory tract, as the moist steam moisturizes and cleanses mucous membranes.
- Supports skin care, as the moisture opens the pores and makes the skin supple.
- Promotes relaxation at lower temperatures than in the Finnish sauna.
The steam sauna is particularly suitable for people who avoid dry air or suffer from respiratory diseases.
3. infrared sauna
The infrared sauna works with infrared radiation, which heats the body directly instead of heating the air in the cabin.
Characteristics:
- Temperature: 30-60 °C
- Heat source: Infrared radiators that emit radiant heat.
- Material: Mostly made of wood, similar to the Finnish sauna, but more compact.
Effect:
- The radiant heat penetrates deep into the skin and muscles, promotes blood circulation and relieves muscle tension.
- Gentler on the circulation as the temperatures are lower.
- Ideal for regeneration after sport and for back pain.
The infrared sauna is particularly recommended for people who prefer gentle and targeted heat therapy.
4. bio sauna
The bio sauna is a milder version of the Finnish sauna and is often also known as a “sanarium”. It combines elements of the Finnish sauna and the steam sauna.
Characteristics:
- Temperature: 50-60 °C
- Humidity: 40-60 %
- Additional options: Often equipped with colored light therapy or flavored infusions.
Effect:
- Gentle on the circulation as the temperatures are moderate.
- Ideal for beginners and people who want to avoid extreme heat.
- Supports skin care and general relaxation.
The bio sauna is a gentle alternative aimed at people who prefer neither the intense heat of the Finnish sauna nor the high humidity of the steam sauna.
5. cryochamber (cold chamber)
The cryochamber is the opposite of a sauna: instead of heat, extreme cold is used here to achieve therapeutic effects.
Characteristics:
- Temperature: -80 to -160 °C
- Length of stay: 2-3 minutes, as the cold is intense.
- Equipment: Usually an insulated cabin in which the body is completely cooled except for the head.
Effect:
- Relieves pain and inflammation, ideal for rheumatism, arthritis or sports injuries.
- Stimulates the metabolism and promotes fat burning.
- Can lift the mood, as the cold releases endorphins.
The cryochamber is often used in top-class sport and medicine, but is also becoming increasingly popular in the wellness sector.
Conclusion
Each of the types of sauna presented, as well as the cryochamber, has specific benefits and areas of application. While the Finnish sauna and bio sauna focus on classic relaxation and strengthening the immune system, the steam sauna and infrared sauna offer gentler alternatives with additional skin and respiratory benefits. The cryochamber, on the other hand, opens up completely new possibilities for regeneration and therapy through targeted cold applications. The choice of the right method depends on individual preferences and health goals.
