Imagine stepping into the warmth of your own sauna, a sanctuary of relaxation just steps away in your home or garden. To guide you on this journey, we'll talk you through the pros and cons of various sauna styles, to help you choose the perfect one for your lifestyle.
What is a sauna?
Let’s start with the basics. At its core, a sauna typically consists of a room heated to induce sweating, providing various health benefits for the body and mind. It’s more than just a heated room; it's a sanctuary of warmth and wellbeing. Originating from Finnish traditions, saunas have transcended cultural boundaries to become cherished spaces for relaxation, rejuvenation, and contemplation.
Why choose a sauna?
Physical benefits
Saunas offer a multitude of physical benefits, making them a go-to solution for relaxation. Beyond muscle recovery, saunas aid arthritis sufferers by reducing inflammation and improving joint mobility. They may also alleviate asthma symptoms, open airways, and contribute to cardiovascular health by inducing vasodilation, enhancing blood flow, and reducing blood pressure.
Saunas act as a skin saviour, potentially easing psoriasis symptoms and promoting clearer skin by flushing out impurities through open pores. While not a weight loss miracle, saunas, with their increased heart rate, complement a healthy lifestyle.
Please notes: Consultation with a doctor is crucial before considering a sauna, especially if you’re pregnant have underlying medical conditions or concerns. Your health should be your top priority.
Mental benefits
Saunas provide a haven for stress relief, promoting the release of endorphins for a relaxed and stress-free state. The serene environment fosters mental clarity, allowing you to disconnect from daily pressures and focus on the present moment.
Regular sauna use is also linked to improved sleep quality, offering a more restful night and more energy the next day. Sauna sessions facilitate social connection, providing a tranquil setting for valuable time with loved ones, free from distractions.
Where to place your sauna
So, you know you want a sauna, but you’re not sure where to place it? Thankfully, the evolution of personal saunas has made owning one more accessible and affordable than ever, whether that’s your home or garden.
Indoor Saunas
If you have a dedicated space in your house, an in-home sauna can be a convenient addition to your wellness routine. Dry saunas designed for home use are not only safe but also available in various sizes. From private saunas to 2-person or family-sized 6-person cabins, you can tailor your indoor sauna experience to your preferences.
Outdoor Saunas
Transform your outdoor space into a personalised wellness retreat with a garden sauna. Engineered to withstand the elements, outdoor saunas come in various styles, ranging from authentic barrel saunas to sleek cube cabins. Opting for a sauna cabin with glass panels allows you to admire your gardening efforts while staying cozy inside. Picture yourself enjoying a spot of stargazing at night—there's something magical about witnessing the changing seasons from the warmth of your toasty sauna.
Types of saunas
Barrel Saunas
- Traditional Design: A charming cylindrical barrel that suits outdoor spaces.
- Versatile Heating: Can be both electric or wood-fired for a rustic experience.
- Spacious: Suitable for various family sizes with different options.
Cube Saunas
- Modern Design: Clean lines and a contemporary look for a stylish addition to your home or garden.
- Versatile Heating Options: Available in electric or wood-fired models.
- Compact: Compact design suits smaller spaces, ideal for urban homes or limited garden areas.
Infrared Saunas
- Modern Design: Built to blend into your indoor space without dominating the room.
- Efficient Heating: Utilises infrared panels to directly heat the body, providing a more comfortable experience. Generally uses less energy compared to traditional saunas.
- Minimalist: Perfect for indoor use and easy to install, requiring minimal space.
Electric vs. wood fired sauna heaters
Electric Saunas
- Convenience: Easily controlled with a touch of a button, making them user-friendly.
- Quick Heating: Rapidly reaches desired temperatures, perfect for spontaneous sauna sessions.
- Indoor and Outdoor: Versatile for both home and garden use.
Wood-Fired Saunas
- Authentic: Provides a traditional sauna experience with the crackle of a wood fire.
- Outdoor Ambiance: Ideal for gardens, adding a touch of rustic charm to your outdoor space.
- Sustainability: Ideal if you’re seeking a more eco-friendly option.
Sauna considerations
Keep in mind the following aspects of your lifestyle when trying to decide on the right sauna for you.
Space
- Home Sauna: Compact designs like cube or infrared are perfect for smaller indoor spaces.
- Garden Sauna: Consider barrel or cube saunas for outdoor spaces, optimising the available area.
Budget
- Cost-Efficient: Infrared saunas are often more budget-friendly, while wood-fired options can vary.
- Long-Term Investment: Electric saunas may have a higher upfront cost, but they offer energy efficiency and convenience.
Family Size
- Small Families: Cube or infrared saunas are suitable for smaller families or individuals.
- Larger Families: Barrel saunas come in various sizes, accommodating more people.
Lifestyle
- Quick Sessions: Electric saunas are perfect for short, frequent sessions.
- Traditional Experience: Wood-fired saunas offer an authentic, immersive experience for sauna enthusiasts.
Tailor your choice to your space, budget, and lifestyle, and soon, you'll be enjoying the soothing warmth of your personal sauna. Transform your living space into a haven of relaxation with the perfect sauna.
Sauna FAQs: your burning questions answered
Are infrared saunas suitable for outdoor use?
While infrared saunas are often designed for indoor use, some manufacturers offer weather-resistant models suitable for outdoor placement.
Can I install a wood-fired sauna indoors?
Wood-fired saunas are designed for outdoor use due to ventilation and safety concerns. Always consult with a professional for indoor installations.
What maintenance is required for a wood-fired sauna?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning ashes, checking the chimney, and ensuring the stove and ventilation are in good condition.
What's the difference between a traditional and infrared sauna?
Traditional saunas use heated air, while infrared saunas directly heat the body. Traditional saunas have higher temperatures, while infrared saunas offer a more comfortable experience at lower temperatures.
Do I need planning permission for a garden sauna?
In many cases, garden saunas fall under permitted development rights, but it's best to check with your local planning department to confirm any specific regulations or restrictions.