How to prepare for a visit to the sauna?
Good preparation will ensure comfort and safety when using the sauna. In addition to basic hygiene, it is also worth paying attention to your health. This will avoid possible (mind we add) unpleasant consequences.
Hygiene and health first
Before entering the sauna, wash your body thoroughly in the shower. This is not only a matter of personal culture, but also a way to make your skin “work better.” What does this mean? Clean skin sweats more easily and thus the body removes toxins faster.
However, not everyone should use the sauna without restriction. High temperatures can pose a risk to people with certain medical conditions. You should contact a doctor first if you have:
- Heart problems – sauna can strain the cardiovascular system, which can be dangerous for people with heart disease.
- Hypertension or low blood pressure – sudden changes in temperature can cause dizziness and weakness.
- Infections and fever – extra heat can further weaken the body and worsen the condition.
- Pregnancy – especially in the first trimester, a sauna may not be the best choice. It is worth consulting a doctor in such a situation.
If you have doubts about whether a sauna is right for you, it’s a good idea to talk to a specialist beforehand. Also, do not ignore the signals sent by your body – if you feel weak while sauntering, dizziness or other ailments appear, it is better to stop the session and rest.
Read also: The joys of sauna – what are the benefits of sauna sessions?
What to take to the sauna?
You don’t need to take many things with you, but a few accessories will definitely come in handy:
- A towel – preferably two: one to sit in the sauna, the other to dry off after leaving.
- Flip-flops – prevent slipping while moving around the facility and help maintain hygiene (remember to leave them before entering the actual sauna).
- Water – sweating makes you lose plenty of fluids, so it’s a good idea to carry a bottle of water with you to rehydrate after a session.
- Loose clothing for a change – after the sauna, the body is heated up, so it is better to avoid tight clothing.
Sauna attire – can you enter in a bathing suit?
This is a question often asked by people going to a sauna for the first time. Well, it may depend on where you go.
In some saunas (e.g., Finnish saunas), nudity is mandatory, but you can wrap yourself in a towel. In other places, outfits made of natural materials, such as cotton, are allowed. The best option to ensure your comfort and hygiene in this case is a towel or a simple covering such as pareo. Avoid synthetic materials. Clothing made of this type of material heats up quite quickly and can cause discomfort.
Before you head to the sauna, it’s a good idea to check the facility’s rules and regulations – different places may have different dress codes.
How to use the sauna? Practical tips
1. Enter slowly
A sudden change in temperature can be a shock to the body, so it is best:
- Sit on a lower bench, where the temperature is lower;
- Gradually get the body used to the heat;
- Do not sit directly on the wood – always use a towel.
2. How long should you stay in the sauna?
There is no single golden rule – it all depends on individual preference and heat tolerance. The standard time for one session is 8-15 minutes. After leaving the sauna, you should rinse your body, and then cool it down with a cold shower or even take a dip in cool water. The whole process can be repeated 2-3 times, taking breaks of several minutes to rest.
3. Hydration and relaxation after sauna
While in a sauna, the body sweats intensively, so do not forget to hydrate. After each session, it’s a good idea to drink water, herbal tea or an isotonic drink to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Avoid coffee and alcohol, which can further dehydrate the body.
After completing the entire sauna ritual, spend at least 20-30 minutes relaxing. This is the time when the body gradually returns to balance, and the effect of relaxation lasts longer. The best thing to do during this time is to sit or lie down in a quiet place, breathe deeply and let the body calm down.
You can read more about proper sauntering in our guide: The most important rules for using the sauna
Sauna – a moment just for you!
Your first visit to a sauna can be a great experience if you come prepared. Remember to take care of your hygiene, hydration and remember the rules that will make your stay enjoyable and safe.
If you have no health contraindications, regular visits to the sauna can help you relax, improve circulation and cleanse your body. The most important thing is to listen to your body – use the sauna as you are most comfortable, without pressure and on your own terms.
Just enjoy the moment. After you leave, you’ll feel light, relaxed and energized – and that’s the best sign that sauna is worth coming back for!
