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Outdoor saunas have been used for centuries. The original saunas were traditional Finnish saunas, used for both physical and spiritual cleansing. They were typically made of wood and heated by burning wood or charcoal in a small stove. Water was poured over the hot stones to create steam and increase the temperature inside the sauna.
Modern infrared saunas will match the advantages of most traditional saunas. This blog post will cover infrared and steam outdoor saunas so you can choose the right one.
Keep reading to learn about outdoor saunas that could benefit you!
Infrared Saunas
Outdoor saunas provide a healthy natural escape from daily life while improving their health and well-being. Although infrared technology has been used in saunas since 1965, it has recently gained popularity as more and more of its users talk about the benefits they are experiencing.
What is an Infrared Sauna?
An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared heaters to emit infrared light waves, rather than heating the air around the person.
There are three main types of infrared heating used by saunas: near-infrared, mid-infrared, and far-infrared. Some infrared saunas are equipped with full spectrum heaters, which offer a combination of all three types. Each one is classified according to the wavelength that it emits.
How Does an Infrared Sauna Work?
Instead of heating the air, an infrared sauna uses infrared rays to heat the body directly. The light waves penetrate through the body and warm its core.
The use of an infrared sauna allows for a lower temperature than a traditional sauna. Some users report that it is a more comfortable experience. This type of heat penetrates deep into the body and provides a deeper and more intense sweat, making it more therapeutic than traditional sauna heat.
Infrared light penetrates deeply and relaxes the muscles. This makes it ideal for those seeking a natural stress-reduction and well-being solution.
Benefits of Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas provide many health benefits! To start, an increase in core body temperature will also increase metabolic rate, leading to weight loss over frequent sauna sessions. Water weight loss and decreased inflammation are also evident after sauna use.
Other health benefits also include:
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improved muscle and joint pain
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improved sleep quality
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improved immune/lymphatic system
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mental clarity and more energy
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increased circulation
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improved cardiovascular function
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and many more!
When used properly a sauna has many health benefits. Before adding a sauna to your self-care routine, please consult your doctor.
Traditional Saunas
Many cultures depend on saunas and use them to relax and socialize. A traditional sauna is a small room designed for heat therapy and made of wood; wooden benches, walls, and ceiling. Rocks or stones on top of an electric heater or wood-burning stove heat a traditional sauna.
How Does a Traditional Sauna Work?
Traditional saunas use heat from a stove or electric heater to warm the air inside the sauna, which in turn warms the body.
A sauna can be used wet or dry. A traditional sauna uses dry heat, which is generated by a stove or heater. If preferred, water can be poured over the hot stones to create steam, which increases the humidity in the sauna. The amount of humidity can be controlled simply by the amount of water used. Many people add aromatic herbs or essential oils to further enhance the experience.
The heated air of a traditional sauna creates a humid, relaxing atmosphere. These saunas are a fun and healthy part of any lifestyle.
Benefits of Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas have a positive impact on both mental and physical health. According to research, saunas lower blood pressure, improve circulation, help detoxify the body, and reduce stress. Saunas also can help relieve chronic pain or cold and allergy symptoms. Avid sauna users report even more improvements to their overall health from their sauna sessions than just the benefits listed here. Keep reading to find out more!
Steam Saunas
Steam saunas, or spa capsules, like the Osaki LK219 Spa Capsule have become increasingly popular over the years, allowing people to relax and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of a sweat session. But what exactly is a steam sauna? In short, it’s an environment created by the combination of heat produced by steam and humidity in the air.
How Does a Steam Sauna Work?
A steam sauna is a sealed enclosure that is equipped with a steam generator. This generator produces hot steam which fills the capsule and creates a humid and heated environment. Some steam capsules have a vent that can allow excess steam to escape and can be equipped with additional features such as lighting, music, and aromatherapy.
Benefits of Steam Saunas
The powerful humidity provided by a steam sauna is beneficial for the skin, especially for hydration or for treating acne. Users with health issues that respond well to a humid climate will also find this a useful addition to their day and a welcome relief from dry climates.
Steam saunas also relieve tension headaches and muscle aches in addition to aiding weight loss. A steam sauna is great for exercising, dieting, and relaxing after a long day.
Comparing Types of Outdoor Saunas
All saunas provide heat therapy, or thermotherapy, to promote healing and relaxation in the body. Wood-burning stoves heat traditional outdoor saunas, creating a calmer, drier atmosphere. Infrared outdoor saunas use electric infrared heaters to produce gentle infrared radiation, making them more comfortable. To choose the right outdoor sauna, compare both types. We'll compare traditional and infrared outdoor saunas so you can choose the right one for your family.
Infrared vs Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas heat a room to 176°F–200+°F. The extreme heat causes profuse sweating which raises the heart rate and cools the body, releasing toxins and other impurities. Many people are attracted to this higher heat - a higher temperature than other thermotherapies. This practice improves circulation, soothes sore muscles, and detoxifies the skin. After a traditional sauna, many people feel relaxed and rejuvenated.
Infrared saunas emit infrared waves to directly heat the users at 113°F–140°F, which is lower than traditional saunas. They typically cost less and most infrared saunas offer chromotherapy lights and aromatherapy diffusers to improve the experience.
Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures than traditional saunas, making them more comfortable and allowing users to enjoy longer sessions. They are ideal for those who want the benefits of a sauna with a more gentle heat.
Traditional vs Steam Saunas
Traditional saunas use dry heat and give the option of adding water to add some humidity to the experience. Wood-burning stoves or electric heaters heat traditional saunas, while steam saunas use a generator to create vapor.
Steam saunas have much higher humidity (even when using water with a traditional sauna) which is gentler on the respiratory system than traditional saunas, a benefit for those who need it. Before using either type of sauna, discuss any risks and side effects with your doctor.
Infrared vs Steam Saunas
An infrared sauna produces no humidity at all and only heats the user solely with infrared light. A steam sauna produces significant humidity, which is usually the deciding factor in making a decision about it. Some users want and require humid heat therapy and others want to avoid it. Also, many prefer steam saunas because they feel more spa-like and luxurious.
Three of the Best Outdoor Saunas from Airpuria
Airpuria has the best outdoor saunas for small and large spaces. Airpuria saunas are built to last, using high-quality materials. Each unit is simple to install and use, making it ideal for at-home relaxation. Outdoor saunas from Airpuria are therapeutic regardless of model, but here are three of the best (all with free shipping!).
Nature 9 Plus - Outdoor Sauna
The Nature 9 Plus Outdoor Sauna from Airpuria is the perfect choice for those who want to experience the heat and relaxation of a sauna in the comfort of their own backyard. This infrared outdoor sauna uses advanced infrared heaters that emit dry, healthy heat and provide more effective detoxification and improved circulation. The outdoor model also allows you to enjoy the fresh air while relaxing. With free shipping available, this state-of-the-art infrared outdoor sauna is the perfect way to take your health, wellness, and relaxation to the next level.
You can learn more about this amazing product here!
Enlighten Dry Traditional Sauna SunRise - 5-Person Sauna
Airpuria's Enlighten Dry Traditional Sauna SunRise 5-Person Sauna is ideal for home sauna enthusiasts. An easy-to-install modular design and advanced air filtration technology make this five-person outdoor sauna convenient and easy to use. Any Enlighten indoor infrared sauna can be used indoors or outdoors, making them a good choice for any space. Airpuria also ships this product for free, making sauna setup easy and affordable. The Enlighten Dry Traditional Sauna SunRise 5-Person Sauna gives you peace of mind whether you're a beginner or an experienced sauna user.
Sunray Cayenne 4-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna
Airpuria's Sunray Cayenne 4-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna is ideal for any backyard. This luxurious sauna has room for four people to relax and unwind in privacy. This sauna includes high-quality materials like Canadian Red Cedar wood and low EMF carbon panel heaters and ships free to your door. Relaxation has never been easier – try out the Sunray Cayenne 4-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna from Airpuria today!
Indoor Saunas vs Outdoor Saunas
When choosing between an indoor sauna and an outdoor sauna, there are some things to consider. Indoor infrared saunas offer a more controlled and private environment and tend to be easier to install and maintain. The indoor setting provides convenience, even when the weather is bad.
Outdoor saunas, on the other hand, are built in an open area such as a backyard, patio, or other open space with there is no (or very little) restriction by walls or ceilings. They allow for excellent ventilation but they are unlikely to be as private.
Indoor and outdoor saunas offer the same health and relaxation benefits with regular use. Both types of saunas allow temperature and aesthetic customization and should be chosen based on personal preference and lifestyle.
Expert Advice for Choosing the Right Outdoor Sauna
When selecting the perfect outdoor sauna for your needs, consider the following tips:
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Assess your available space and determine the ideal location for your sauna. Ensure that the area has proper ventilation and access to electrical outlets if needed.
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Consider your personal preferences and health goals. Different types of outdoor saunas offer various benefits, such as infrared saunas providing deep tissue relaxation and steam saunas offering a more humid experience.
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Research the different types of outdoor saunas available, including traditional, infrared, and steam saunas. Compare their features, benefits, and costs to make an informed decision.
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Consult with a sauna professional or a trusted provider like Airpuria to help guide you in making the right choice.
Contact Airpuria for the Best Outdoor Saunas Today
Are you curious about the different types of saunas available? Airpuria can provide you with all the information that you need, and we are here to answer your questions. For a complete selection of Sauna products with free shipping, click here!
To get in touch with us directly, please call (773) 337-8822 or send an email to sales@airpuria.com. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Financing Options and Tips for Purchasing an Outdoor Sauna
When looking to purchase an outdoor sauna, consider providers like Airpuria that offer financing options to make your purchase more affordable. Airpuria provides financing for all customers with rates as low as 0% for up to 18 months, as well as business financing with flexible terms and competitive rates.
Here's what you need to know about financing options for outdoor saunas:
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Airpuria offers financing options for all individuals, with 0% interest rates for up to 18 months.
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Business owners can also apply for special financing programs tailored to their needs.
Links:
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Financing for individuals: https://www.7figures.app/Airpuria
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Financing for businesses: https://reliantcapitalgrp.com/airpuria
Remember to research different outdoor saunas and compare their features, benefits, and costs. Consult with a sauna professional or a trusted provider like Airpuria to help guide you in making the right choice for your needs and budget.
Different Types of Outdoor Saunas: Infrared, Traditional, & Steam Saunas - FAQs
Let's address some of your most frequently asked questions!
What is the best type of outdoor sauna for weight loss?
One of the biggest determinants of weight loss with a sauna is the frequency of use, so you will want to choose the sauna that you will enjoy the most. Every sauna has its own advantages.
Outdoor saunas include electric, wood-fired, infrared, and steam. Wood-fired models heat up slower but are more natural.
Higher temperatures and tissue penetration make infrared saunas ideal for deeper relaxation. Finally, steam saunas use moist heat to detoxify and relax. Goals, needs, and budget determine the best outdoor sauna for weight loss.
How do I choose the right type of outdoor sauna for me?
Choosing an outdoor sauna doesn't have to be difficult. Consider what the best location will be and how much space you have there. Next, decide how many people will want to use the sauna at the same time. Once you know these parameters, research outdoor saunas that meet them and compare insulation, size, and energy efficiency to choose one. Each one will describe features that you might find desirable and will help you choose.
Can I use multiple types of outdoor saunas for different benefits?
Yes. Multiple outdoor saunas can provide a well-rounded wellness experience. Traditional saunas at 180-200 degrees Fahrenheit can relax and detoxify. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use full spectrum heaters or far infrared ceramic heaters and operate at 120-145 degrees Fahrenheit and offer many of the same health benefits.
Combining traditional and infrared saunas in your routine gives you all the health benefits while letting you customize the temperature.
Can I use an outdoor sauna regularly?
Your outdoor sauna usage depends on your goals and preferences. If you're comfortable, use your outdoor sauna at least twice a week. This lets you enjoy the many health benefits of saunas, such as improved blood circulation, relaxation, sleep, and stress reduction. Regular sauna use can also reduce post-workout muscle soreness and aid weight loss when combined with a healthy lifestyle. For best results, use your outdoor sauna consistently.
Are there any precautions I should take when using an outdoor sauna?
Some precautions for sauna use include wearing appropriate clothing and footwear - loose, breathable clothing is best, and shoes or sandals to protect your feet from the hot sauna floor. To avoid dehydration and overheating, bring lots of water and be mindful of your body's signals. If you feel light-headed, dizzy, or experience any other signs of overheating, exit the sauna immediately and cool down.
Finally, consult your doctor before using the sauna if you have any medical conditions or medications that may interact with high temperatures. Take these precautions to enjoy your outdoor sauna safely.