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All Your Sauna Questions Answered
The Ultimate Guide to Sauna
A sauna is more than just a heated room—it’s an ancient tradition deeply rooted in relaxation, wellness, and social connection. According to the International Sauna Association, a sauna is a wooden room heated to 175-194F with low humidity briefly increased by steam from water poured over hot stones. But sauna is more than just a definition—it’s a holistic experience that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Sauna provides scientifically proven health benefits, promotes well-being, and offers a natural escape from the stress of daily life. Whether enjoyed alone for reflection or shared with others in a peaceful setting, sauna is a timeless practice that everyone should have access to, no matter where they are. Types of Saunas: Find Your Perfect Fit Saunas come in various styles, each offering unique benefits. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best sauna for your lifestyle. 1. Traditional Saunas Heated by an electric or wood-burning stove loaded with stones. The famous Finnish löyly (steam) is created by splashing water on the hot stones. Benefits: Improves blood circulation Detoxifies the body through sweating Relieves muscle and joint pain Customizable experiences—from intense heat to a gentle, relaxing soak 2. Infrared Saunas Uses infrared panels to heat the body directly rather than warming the air. Operates at lower temperatures while still inducing deep sweating. Benefits: Faster recovery from sore muscles and joint pain Enhances cardiovascular health Lower temperatures make it ideal for those sensitive to high heat Heats up in 20-30 minutes, making it easy to use anytime 3. Hybrid Saunas A combination of traditional sauna heat and infrared technology. Offers the full benefits of both types, providing deeper muscle relaxation and detoxification. Benefits: Intense sweating and detox like a traditional sauna Infrared heat penetrates muscles deeply for better recovery 4. Steam Saunas/Shower Uses boiling water to create steam, maintaining high humidity with lower temperatures. Benefits: Ideal for muscle relaxation and skin hydration Provides a gentle heat for a soothing experience Helps with respiratory health and congestion relief The Benefits of Sauna: Why You Should Make It a Habit Short-Term Benefits Reduces stress by releasing endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” hormones. Improves sleep by regulating hormone activity and promoting deep rest. Relieves muscle and joint pain by increasing circulation and reducing soreness. Enhances skin health through deep sweating that removes toxins and impurities. Long-Term Health Benefits Heart Health: Regular sauna use improves cardiovascular function. Using a sauna 2-3 times a week reduces the risk of heart disease by over 20%, while 4-7 times a week lowers it by 50%. Better Circulation: Sauna improves blood vessel flexibility, reducing blood pressure and improving oxygen flow. Stronger Immunity: The heat stress triggers a boost in immune function, helping the body fight off illness. Cognitive Protection: Regular sauna use reduces the risk of dementia by 66% and Alzheimer’s by 65%. Sauna Use Reduces the Risk of: Heart-related deaths by 50% Dementia by 66% Alzheimer’s disease by 65% High blood pressure by 47% Pulmonary diseases by 41% Stroke by 62% Citation: https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/s0025-6196(18)30275-1/fulltext How to Sauna: A Step-by-Step Guide 1. Shower First: Always rinse off before entering to keep the sauna clean. 2. Relax & Adjust: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position. 3. Use Löyly (Steam): If using a traditional sauna, throw water on the stones to create steam, but be mindful of others. 4. Stay Hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after your sauna session. 5. Listen to Your Body: Stay in the sauna for 10-20 minutes or as long as feels good. 6. Cool Down: Step outside, take a cold shower, or enjoy fresh air. 7. Repeat If Desired: You can enjoy 2-4 rounds or just one—whatever works for you. 8. End with a Final Shower: Refresh before finishing your session. 9. Relax Afterward: Embrace the post-sauna calm and rehydrate. Choosing the Right Sauna for You 1. Sauna Type Do you prefer intense heat and steam? Choose a Traditional Sauna Need gentle, deep-penetrating warmth? Go for Infrared Want the best of both worlds? Try a Hybrid Sauna Prefer high humidity? A Steam Sauna/Shower is ideal 2. Location Indoor Sauna → Convenient and accessible year-round. Outdoor Sauna → Connects you with nature and provides a spa-like escape. 3. Size & Seating Ensure the sauna has proper seating height and enough space for users. 4. Features & Accessories Enhance your sauna with lighting, audio options, and safety features. Take The Perfect Sauna Quiz Choosing the Right Sauna Heater Types of Sauna Heaters Wall-mounted heaters → Best for small saunas with limited space. Floor-mounted heaters → Ideal for larger saunas. Wood-burning heaters → Perfect for certain outdoor sauna models with larger spaces. Pillar heaters → Provide even heat and steam due to their large stone capacity. Combi heaters → Include a built-in steamer, allowing precise humidity control. Matching Your Heater to Your Experience Soft & Gentle Sauna: Choose a heater with a large stone mass for long-lasting warmth. Hot & Dry Sauna: Opt for a heater with fewer stones for quick, intense heat. Moist Sauna (180% Humidity): Use a Combi heater for a steam-like experience. Take The Perfect Heater Quiz Preparing Your Indoor or Outdoor Sauna Space Setting Up an Outdoor Sauna Installing an outdoor sauna is an excellent way to create a backyard wellness retreat. To ensure stability, longevity, and an optimal experience, follow these key preparation steps: 1. Choose a Location: Select a flat, level area with good drainage, easy access to power (if using an electric heater), and privacy for relaxation. 2. Prepare a Solid Base: A sturdy foundation is essential for sauna stability. Recommended options include: Concrete Pad: Provides maximum durability (ideal thickness: 3-4 inches). Gravel Base: Allows for natural drainage (use 4-6 inches of crushed stone). Wood Deck or Patio: Aesthetically pleasing but must support the sauna’s weight. Paving Stones: A cost-effective option that ensures even weight distribution. 3. Plan for Electrical Needs: If using an electric heater, hire a licensed electrician to ensure proper wiring and compliance with local codes. 4. Finalize the Installation Site: Before assembling your sauna: Remove debris and level the ground. Confirm accessibility to power sources. Ensure ventilation around the sauna for air circulation. 💡 Note: Outdoor saunas are delivered curbside in flat-pack boxes and require assembly—plan for at least two people to assist in setup. Guide to How To Prepare Your Outdoor Sauna Space Preparing an Indoor Sauna Space An indoor sauna is a fantastic addition to a home gym, bathroom, or wellness space. Proper preparation ensures a safe and efficient installation: 1. Select the Best Location: Choose a space with good ventilation, structural support, and easy access to a shower or bathroom for post-sauna rinsing. Common locations include basements, home gyms, and master bathrooms. 2. Prepare the Flooring: Use water-resistant surfaces like tile, concrete, or laminate. Avoid placing the sauna directly on hardwood or carpet, as heat and moisture can cause damage. 3. Plan for Electrical Installation: Ensure the sauna is close to an appropriate power source. Hire a licensed electrician to install wiring safely and to code. 4. Final Considerations: Ensure the sauna door is positioned for easy access. Plan seating arrangements for comfort and space efficiency. Install sauna-safe lighting to enhance the ambiance. 💡 Note: Indoor saunas are also delivered in flat-pack boxes/crates for assembly—ensure you have the necessary space and tools for installation. Guide to How To Prepare Your Indoor Sauna Space Sauna Maintenance: Keeping Your Sauna in Great Shape Clean Regularly: Sweep, vacuum, and wipe down benches with sauna cleaner. Prevent Moisture Buildup: Let the heater stay warm after use to dry out the sauna. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Regular checks keep air circulation optimal. Check Chimney (For Wood-Burning Saunas): Regular maintenance ensures safety. Inspect Heater Stones Annually: Rearrange and replace any broken stones for even heating. Guide to Sauna Maintenance Sauna is for Everyone At Almost Heaven by Harvia, we believe that sauna should be accessible to all, no matter where you live. Whether you're looking for a personal retreat, a family wellness space, or a spa-like escape, there’s a perfect sauna for you. Investing in a sauna isn’t just about heat—it’s about creating a lifestyle of wellness, relaxation, and longevity. So, find the right sauna, heater, and setup for you, and start experiencing the profound benefits of sauna bathing today.
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Become the Best Version of Yourself
Become the Best Version of Yourself Working toward personal goals—whether it’s improving health, making more time for loved ones, or prioritizing self-care—can be challenging. As life gets busy, routines shift, and motivation can fade. Almost Heaven Saunas is here to help you stay on track with five practical ways to enhance your sauna experience and support your journey toward a healthier, more balanced life. 1. Add Essential Oils Elevate your sauna experience with the power of essential oils. Almost Heaven Saunas offers eight natural essential oil scents, available in a box set or individually. Each oil carries unique benefits: Pine – Reduces inflammation, boosts immunity, relieves stress Ylang Ylang – Mood-lifting, antiseptic, deeply relaxing Lavender – Enhances sleep, reduces anxiety, eases pain Cedarwood – Anti-inflammatory, natural antiseptic, deodorizer Frankincense – Supports immunity, promotes skin health, aids digestion Eucalyptus – Invigorating, relaxing, clears the mind Peppermint – Energizing, cooling, and calming Lemon – Mood booster, immune support, natural antiseptic Mix and match to create the perfect sauna atmosphere—just add a few drops of oil to a bucket of water and enjoy the benefits of these mood-boosting, body-relaxing, and mind-clearing scents. 2. Turn up the heat- Sauna Workouts Maximize your sauna time by incorporating light movement. Try squats, push-ups, or gentle stretching—heat helps release lactic acid from muscles, easing tension and improving flexibility. Simply sitting in a sauna burns calories, but adding a little activity can enhance the benefits. Just remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body! 3. Family Sauna Night Prioritize meaningful connections by dedicating time to a sauna night with family or friends. No screens, no distractions—just genuine conversation and relaxation in the warmth of your sauna. 4. Get Better Sleep Saunas help melt away stress, allowing the body to unwind and the mind to relax. As a sauna session ends, endorphins are released, creating a deep sense of calm that promotes restful sleep. Struggling with insomnia? A few drops of lavender essential oil in the sauna can help prepare the body and mind for a night of deep, quality rest. 5. Be Consistent Sticking to healthy habits can be difficult, but consistency is key. The more regularly a sauna is used, the more noticeable the benefits become. Regular sauna sessions not only promote relaxation but also contribute to overall well-being, helping to maintain focus, energy, and motivation in all areas of life. No matter what the goal, taking time for a sauna session can help restore balance—physically, mentally, and spiritually—leaving you refreshed and ready to keep moving forward. Start today. Start with a sauna.
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How To Prepare Your Indoor Sauna Space
Installing an indoor sauna is a fantastic way to create a personal wellness retreat inside your home. Whether integrating a freestanding sauna or building a custom sauna, proper preparation ensures optimal performance, safety, and longevity. Step 1: Choose the Right Location Before installing your sauna, consider the following factors to select the best location: ✔️ Accessibility: Pick a space that is easy to reach and provides privacy, ideally near a bathroom or shower for post-sauna rinsing. ✔️ Structural Integrity: Ensure the floor can support the sauna’s weight, especially in multi-story homes. ✔️ Ventilation: Good ventilation is essential to allow for fresh air intake and moisture removal. ✔️ Available Space: Determine the size of your sauna based on your needs and available room space. Common indoor sauna locations include: Home gyms Master bathrooms Basements Spas or wellness areas Thinking about placing an indoor sauna outdoors? Indoor saunas are not designed to withstand outdoor elements like rain or snow. If you’re considering an outdoor installation, keep in mind: Covering is required: A covered patio or pergola is ideal. Glass retains less heat: Indoor saunas have more glass than outdoor models, so in colder climates, upgrading to a more powerful heater is recommended. No enclosed floor: Indoor saunas do not come with flooring. If placing it on a slatted deck, install a sealed platform underneath to prevent drafts. Step 2: Frame Insulate the Space If you are building a custom indoor sauna, proper framing and insulation are key to heat retention and moisture control. ✔️ Frame the area: Use wood framing to create the sauna enclosure. ✔️ Insulate walls and ceiling: Use high-quality insulation like fiberglass or rock wool to maintain heat efficiency. ✔️ Install a vapor barrier: A foil-faced vapor barrier should be installed to prevent moisture from seeping into surrounding walls. Freestanding saunas do not require framing but should still be placed in a well-ventilated, dry area. Step 3: Electrical Considerations for Your Heater If you choose an electric sauna heater, proper installation is crucial for safety and compliance. ✔️ Power source: Ensure your chosen location has access to the appropriate electrical supply. ✔️ Consult an electrician: All electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician who understands local codes and regulations. ✔️ Cost considerations: Electrical installation costs vary based on: Distance from your sauna to your electrical panel Local electrician rates Cost of wiring and material ✔️ Get multiple quotes: We recommend contacting 2-3 electricians for estimates before starting installation. Step 4: Prepare the Floor Your indoor sauna can be placed on almost any solid surface—including concrete, tile, and laminate. However, avoid placing it directly on carpet or hardwood flooring, as moisture and heat can cause damage. ✔️ Use a waterproof surface: Tile, concrete, or other water-resistant materials are best. ✔️ Ensure proper drainage: A slight floor slope can direct water toward a drain in areas with higher moisture. ✔️ Install a sealed platform if necessary: If placing the sauna on a slatted deck, build a sealed platform underneath to eliminate drafts. Step 5: Plan for Final Details Before installation, consider these final touches: ✔️ Door Size Placement: Ensure the sauna door is positioned for easy access. ✔️ Benches Seating: Plan your seating arrangement based on your comfort and available space. ✔️ Lighting: Use low-wattage, sauna-safe lighting to enhance the atmosphere. Step 6: Shipping Delivery Information All Almost Heaven Saunas ship within the continental U.S. via freight service. Here’s what to expect: ✔️ Delivery Timeline: Most saunas ship within 2-4 weeks, depending on the model and inventory availability. ✔️ Freight Delivery: The sauna will arrive in multiple flat-packaged boxes on a large truck. You will need to unload and move the boxes to your assembly location. ✔️ Curbside Drop-Off: The freight company will deliver the sauna to the curb or driveway, not inside the home or backyard. ✔️ Assembly Required: Most of our saunas are designed for DIY assembly with easy-to-follow instructions. We recommend having at least two people for installation. Need more details? Visit our full Shipping Info page. Preparing your space properly will ensure your indoor sauna lasts for years, providing a safe, comfortable environment for relaxation. Whether you’re placing your sauna in a home gym, bathroom, or basement, taking the right steps will maximize performance and durability. Need help choosing the perfect indoor sauna? Explore our collection of Almost Heaven Indoor Saunas today.
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