Saunas have become increasingly popular as more and more people are discovering the numerous benefits they offer. From promoting relaxation and reducing stress to aiding in muscle recovery and detoxification, saunas offer a plethora of potential benefits for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. However, like any other activity, there are times when participating in sauna use may not be advisable. In this post, we explore the different scenarios when you should skip the sauna.

If you are pregnant or have a heart condition

Saunas increase your heart rate and can lead to stress on your respiratory and cardiovascular systems. If you have a history of heart disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to avoid using the sauna, as it may put undue stress on your body. It’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before engaging in any new health or wellness routines.

If you are intoxicated or have undergone surgery

When you are feeling dehydrated or numbed due to anaesthetic use for surgery, sauna use can exacerbate these sensations and could potentially lead to dehydration or other unpleasant and harmful outcomes. Therefore, it is best to wait until you are properly hydrated, and your body has had time to heal following a recent surgery.

If you are feeling weak or ill

In cases of a weakened immune system or illness, sauna use may put further stress on your body, making your underlying health concerns worse. Additionally, there is a risk of spreading germs to other people using the sauna, so it’s best to stay away if you aren’t feeling well.

If you have open wounds or sunburns

Sauna use increases circulation and in turn, may aggravate open wounds or sunburns. If you have open cuts or sores on your body, it’s best to avoid the sauna until you have fully healed.

If you are under age or under height requirements

Most saunas have age and height requirements. While many individuals can gain benefits from sauna use, it is essential to maintain safe usage by following guidelines about age and height restrictions.

Saunas offer many benefits for overall health and well-being, including promoting relaxation, soothing muscle tension, and enhancing sweating and detoxification. When participating in sauna use, it’s important to proceed with caution and avoid where necessary depending on your individual health needs and medical history. If you’re unsure whether you should use a sauna, it’s best to consult with your doctor before engaging in the practice. Remember, safety always comes first, and taking the necessary precautions will help ensure that your experience is both enjoyable and beneficial.

FAQ’S

Q: When should I avoid using the sauna?

A: There are a few times when avoiding the sauna is best; if you are pregnant, ill or have a heart condition and if you’re intoxicated or have sunburn.

Q: What are the potential risks of using a sauna?

A: When using a sauna, it is important to be aware of the potential risks that it may have. Some of these potential risks include; burns, dehydration and lowered blood pressure.

Saunas have been around for centuries and are used for health, relaxation, and therapeutic benefits. One of the most important factors when using a sauna is the temperature. But how hot should you let your sauna get? This is a common question that new sauna users often ask, and it’s a question that deserves some exploration. In this blog post, we’ll look at the different temperature ranges in saunas and discuss which one is best for you. 

It’s important to note that the temperature of a sauna is a personal preference and varies from person to person. However, the recommended temperature range for a traditional sauna is between 76°C to 88°C (170°F to 190°F). This high temperature produces a lot of heat, which leads to sweating, dilated blood vessels, and increased heart rate. It’s thought that this extensive sweating helps the body to detoxify and relax muscles. 

A factor to consider when deciding on the temperature of your sauna is the duration of your session. A typical sauna session lasts between 5 to 20 minutes, depending on your preference and tolerance. If you’re new to saunas, start with a shorter session and work your way up. It’s better to start low and increase the temperature gradually, rather than starting high and risking any adverse reactions.

One common myth about saunas is that the hotter, the better. However, saunas that are hotter than the recommended temperatures are unsafe and can cause heat exhaustion and dehydration. If you’re feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseous, it’s essential to leave the sauna immediately and seek medical attention. Additionally, it’s important to always listen to your body and adjust the temperature or duration of your sauna session accordingly.

Ultimately, the temperature of your sauna should be comfortable for you. When using a sauna for therapeutic or relaxation purposes, it’s important to be familiar with the temperature ranges in saunas and adjust accordingly. Always start low and gradually increase the temperature and duration of your sessions. Finally, it’s important to always stay hydrated, listen to your body, and never stay in the sauna beyond your comfort level. Enjoy your sauna session and let your body reap the benefits!

If you want to learn more about the optimal time to spend in a sauna then please read our blog on this. 

The Sauna Temperature Guide: How Hot Should I Let my Sauna Get? FAQ’s

Q: How long should I spend in a Sauna?

A: A typical sauna session lasts between 5 to 20 minutes, depending on your preference and tolerance.

Q: What are the benefits of using a Sauna?

A: The high temperature in a sauna leads to sweating, dilated blood vessels and increased heart rate. From the extensive sweating, this helps the body to detoxify and relax muscles.