Introduction to Sauna Etiquette: Guidelines for Newcomers
Sauna sessions are not just about sweating it out in a heated room; they encapsulate a ritual that has been cherished across many cultures for centuries. For first-timers, understanding sauna etiquette is essential to ensure that the experience remains respectful, enjoyable, and beneficial for everyone involved. Here, we delve into why etiquette matters in public saunas, outline the key do's and don'ts, and explore the added benefits of having a sauna at home.
Why Sauna Etiquette in Public Saunas Matters
Saunas are renowned for their silence and tranquillity, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Observing proper etiquette ensures that this peaceful ambience is maintained, allowing all users to relax fully and enjoy the health benefits of sauna bathing. It fosters a respectful and considerate environment where everyone can unwind without distractions or discomfort.
What the Do's and Don'ts Are in a Public Sauna
Do's:
- Keep Noise to a Minimum: Saunas are places of relaxation, so keep conversations quiet and to a minimum. If you're alone with a friend, feel free to chat quietly, ensuring it stays within the sauna.
- Shower Beforehand: Always take a shower before entering the sauna to wash away any sweat, bacteria, or dirt. This maintains hygiene and enhances the experience for you and others.
- Use a Towel: Sit or lie on a towel to protect both your privacy and the sauna's cleanliness. It's also hygienic and prevents direct contact with the hot surfaces.
- Respect Personal Space: Avoid taking up too much space, especially when the sauna is shared with others. Being considerate of personal space ensures everyone can enjoy their sauna session comfortably.
- Enter and Exit Quickly: To maintain the sauna's temperature and steam levels, enter and exit as swiftly as possible, ensuring the door shuts behind you.
Don'ts:
- Avoid Working Out: The sauna is for relaxation, not for exercising. Physical activities inside the sauna can pose risks to yourself and others, disturbing the tranquil environment.
- Refrain from Applying Water to Stones Without Consent: Increasing the sauna's heat and steam should be a collective decision. Always ask other users before adding water to the sauna stones.
- Don't Wear Jewellery: Metal objects can heat up quickly and cause burns. It's best to remove all jewellery before entering.
- Limit Your Time: Stay aware of how long you've been in the sauna. About 20 minutes is often ideal, but listen to your body and exit if you start feeling uncomfortable.
The Benefits of Having a Sauna at Home
While public saunas offer a communal experience, having a sauna at home brings its unique set of advantages:
- Privacy and Convenience: Enjoy sauna sessions whenever you like, without worrying about others' schedules or preferences.
- Personalisation: Control the temperature, duration, and atmosphere according to your personal preferences, making each session tailored to your needs.
- Hygiene: A personal sauna eliminates concerns about cleanliness and hygiene that can come with shared facilities.
- Relaxation at Your Doorstep: Having immediate access to a sauna means you're more likely to incorporate it regularly into your wellness routine, maximizing the health benefits.
Why the Solo One Infrared Sauna is Perfect for your Home
The Solo One Infrared Sauna is the perfect choice to enjoy the benefits of a sauna at home. It is the size of a regular corner shower cabin and because it is a dry sauna, you could place it in any room. Not just in your bathroom. It is also:
- Cheap to run - electricity costs approximately £0.51 per 60-minute session.
- Easy Assembly - two adults can complete the build in a few hours using basic tools.
- Easy Installation - requires only 1 normal plug socket.
In summary, observing sauna etiquette ensures that everyone can enjoy the myriad benefits of sauna bathing in peace and comfort. For those fortunate enough to have a sauna at home, it offers a splendid opportunity to elevate your well-being routine, providing a sanctuary for relaxation and health within the comfort of your own space. Whether in public or private, respecting the traditions and etiquette of sauna use will enhance your experience and that of those around you.
FAQ: Navigating Sauna Etiquette and Best Practices
What are you supposed to wear in a sauna?
In most public saunas, especially in the UK and the US, the norm is to wear swimwear, such as bikinis or swim shorts. Alternatively, wrapping a towel around your waist is a common and respectful practice. It maintains both hygiene and comfort while respecting privacy. However, it's essential to remove jewellery as it can heat up and cause burns.
Is there sauna etiquette?
Yes, sauna etiquette is crucial to ensure a comfortable and respectful environment for all users. Key aspects include maintaining quiet, respecting others' personal space, keeping the sauna clean by sitting on a towel, and avoiding activities like working out or loud conversations. Proper etiquette makes the sauna experience enjoyable for everyone.
What are the rules for sauna room?
Sauna room rules typically cover aspects like noise levels, duration of stay, hygiene, and temperature adjustments. Key rules include:
- Shower before entering to ensure cleanliness.
- Keep noise to a minimum to preserve the serene atmosphere.
- Use a towel to sit or lie on for hygiene and to avoid direct contact with the wood.
- Be mindful of how long you stay in the sauna to avoid overheating.
- Respect others by not adjusting the temperature or adding water to the stones without agreement.
What to do while sitting in a sauna?
Sitting in a sauna is an opportunity to relax and detoxify. You can practice deep breathing, meditate, or simply enjoy the quiet and warmth. It's a time to unwind mentally and physically. Some people like to perform gentle stretches if the sauna is not crowded, but active exercises are discouraged. The focus should be on relaxation and enjoying the heat.
Do you sit in a sauna with clothes on?
Typically, you don't wear your regular clothes in a sauna. The most common attire is swimwear or a towel wrapped around your body. This approach respects both hygiene and the cultural norms associated with sauna use. It ensures comfort and safety while also allowing your skin to benefit directly from the heat.
What not to do in a sauna?
Several practices are discouraged in a sauna for health, safety, and etiquette reasons, including:
- Don't bring electronics: The heat can damage them, and they can disturb others.
- Don't work out: Saunas are for relaxation, and exercising can pose safety risks.
- Avoid loud conversations: Keep the environment tranquil for all users.
- Don't stay too long: To avoid overheating, limit your sessions to around 20 minutes or less, depending on how you feel.
- Don't ignore discomfort: If you feel dizzy or uncomfortable, it's time to leave the sauna and cool down.
Following these guidelines and the established etiquette ensures a pleasant sauna experience for both you and others around you.
