Sweat it out – tips for going to the sauna
As disgusting as the cold and wet weather outside may be, winter always has its good sides for me. For example, sitting on the couch with a cup of tea and a wool blanket and binge-watching series or soaking in the hot bathtub for hours with an exciting book. And of course the sauna. It works in summer too, but it's even more fun in winter. You sit warm and dry and at the same time do a lot of good for your body and your health.
Did you actually know that there were precursors to the modern sauna as early as the Stone Age?! The sauna in today's log cabin shape comes from Finland and has actually only been known in Germany since the 1930s. But why should you go to the sauna now? Quite simply, regular sauna sessions strengthen your immune system in the long term, reduce stress and thereby relieve tension, relax the muscles and improve skin circulation and are therefore a natural anti-aging. Dead skin cells are gently removed and the skin looks fresher and more radiant overall after the sauna.
Sauna sessions are not rocket science, but there are a few tips you should keep in mind. For example, that you definitely shower before going to the sauna. On the one hand for hygienic reasons, on the other hand to pre-warm the body in the shower. This is especially important when it is really cold outside. Dry yourself thoroughly after showering, as dry skin can sweat much better in the sauna. You don't have to overdo it with the sauna to achieve a healthy effect: two sauna sessions of around ten minutes each are enough. Take at least a ten-minute break between sauna sessions and, above all, make sure to drink enough. The body loses around half a liter of fluid per sauna session. And very important: Don't go into the sauna hungry or with a full stomach, as both put additional strain on your circulation.
When you're done with your sauna session, it's time to take care of your body and hair. Since the high temperatures open both the skin pores and the outer cuticle layer of the hair, care ingredients can now penetrate particularly deeply and develop their full effect. After the sauna, you should apply a body lotion or body oil and treat your hair to a treatment pack. But be careful: Please do not use products with retinol or fruit acid as these can irritate the skin. Soothing creams, for example with thermal water, are better. All in all, a sauna is about health and, above all, relaxation. So don't stress yourself out and take it easy. Read a book every now and then or treat yourself to a massage and plan at least two hours for your sauna visit.
