Sauna Bath

INTRODUCTION :

Some form of heat treatment is given in most places for-

1.To relax body tissues & tense muscles.

2.Prior heating to massage increases effectiveness of the treatment .BUT IT IS DANGEROUS TO INCRESE THE BODY TEMPERATURE MORE THAN 2-3 DEGREES CENTRIGRADE.

Sauna (technical info )

There are two types of sauna available—

(based on the finish principle of a log cabin)

1.Panel.

2.Log (Traditional).

The area used for structuring sauna bath must be..

1.Adequately large.

2.Ventilated.

3.On ground floor to reduce risk.

The minimum area is approximately 64 sq.ft.(6 sq.mtrs.) ..which can be altered as per the availability of space..(for 2 seater + shower/changing cubicle/rest area.)

Two Types of Sauna :

1 Panel :

It is made up of twp panels of wood (usually pine)with a layer of insulating material between the panels.

2.Log (Traditional ) :

Made up of solid wood ( thick lengths of pine),slightly curved on each side to resemble logs .Both are free standing units & needs to be erected on an even floor or quarry tiles or non – slip ceramic tiles.

Sauna Fittings :

1.Air —

a.inlet

b.outlet.

2.Thermostat.

3.Benches (usually with levels ).

4.Guard rail for stove.

5.Duck boards for the floor.

6.Sauna pail.

7.Long handed ladle.

8.Lamp .(insulated to prevent breakage or burn due to high internal temperature.)

9.Observation window.

10.Buzzer & timer.

Air in Sauna :

Air in sauna bath needs to be changed 6times/hour.Removal of moisture is mandatory so air does not become stale & sauna becomes unhyeginic .No special plumbing is required.

Scrubbing & rinsing is best channel to clean .Detergents needs to be avoided for 2 reasons

1.Smell

2.Rotting of the wood.

Electricity :

Electricity is dependent upon the size of the sauna .Heat is produced by the stove inside (electric heater),which are placed on the top of the tray of electric stove. Small 3KW(for sauna for 3-4 persons)

Can operate off a normal 13 AMP ring however but larger the size 4–9 KW requires more power & a special cable fitted by the electrician. This can be problematic if the insulation breaks or is been touched the person sitting inside. Preferably (must) controls must be all outside the sauna-bath.

To be completely heated sauna usually takes 20 to 60 minutes depending upon the size .After the set temperature is reached the thermostat will shut off automatically.

Special stones emit the heat which rises on “convection currents” & although the heat is produced (indirect)remains constant. When the walls of the sauna have absorbed all the heat possible,it is radiated back into the cabin.

The temperature in the sauna should induce free sweating ;it is pointless to subject the body to any temperature higher than this……

FOR FEMALES — 60 TO 70 DEGREE CENTIGRADE (140 TO 160 DEGREE F)

FOR MALES ——- 80 TO 90 DEGREE CENTRIGRADE (176 – 194 DEGREE F)

Sauna is a very dry heat but slight humidity can be produced by ladling water(from sauna pail)the stones.The maximum span of this treatment is 10 to 15 minutes at a time & one can take advantage of the same & secondly the heat produced is dry heat versus steam heat is the wet one.

Effects of Sauna :

• Stimulates blood circulation.
• Increases Pulse rate
• Increases body temperature.
• Effect on Blood pressure is variable but commomly falls due to heat and relaxation.
• Heat activates more than two million sweat glands in skin so mineral salts,other substancesincluding toxins normally excreted by the kidneys,are discharged through the dilated pores of the skin.The result of this elimination means that the skin is throughly cleansed ,its pores are unblocked and blackheads are loosened and is in much a healthier state.
• Minor aches and pains are relieved, stiff joints are loosened and tissues are softened .
• Temporary water weight loss may be seen because of dehydration but is restored as soon the person drinks water or beverages.

  You are not Suppose to take sauna bath if you have the following :

• Heart diseases.
• Abnormally high or low blood pressure.
• Venous thrmbosis.
• Uncontrolled diabetes.
• Epilepsy.
• Diseases of the kidney.
• Skin diseases and infections.
• Under the influence of aloholic drinks.
• Less than two hours after a meal.
• Severe exhaustion or dehydration.
• Asthma
• Varicose veins
• Psoriasis
• Migraine

  Method of use of Sauna bath :

• Remove all jewellery or metallic objects you are wearing.
• Sit in steam bath with towel wrapped around the body.
• If the temperature gets unbearable inside try reduce excess heat by opening the door .That instantly releases the heat and cools off the sauna.
• Wipe away excess moisture on eyebrow or tip of your nose because that makes you uncomfortable.
• After sauna bath wash with warm water shower to remove the sweat .
• After sauna relax to 15 minutes.