How a sauna can contribute to a healthier lifestyle

What happens in the body during a sauna session

In a classic Finnish sauna, the temperature is usually 70–95 °C with lower humidity, while infrared cabins operate at lower temperatures but heat the tissue more deeply. In both variants, vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels, occurs, so circulation is enhanced and peripheral blood flow increases. The heart rate increases moderately, more similar to light physical activity than rest.

Increased sweating helps cool the body and removes surface impurities, so the skin often feels smoother and more well-circulated after a session. Muscle fibers become more elastic at high temperatures, which subjectively reduces muscle pain after exertion. With the right dosage, a sauna session can contribute to better mobility and a feeling of relief in the shoulders, neck and lower back.

Key benefits of regular sauna use

• Stress reduction and mental relaxation: The calm atmosphere and warmth stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, making it easier to relax after a busy day.
• Muscle recovery support: Increased temperature and blood flow can help to remove metabolites more quickly after a workout and reduce the feeling of stiffness.
• Skin benefits: Opening pores and sweating make it easier to clean surface impurities, and better circulation gives a fresher appearance.
• Better tolerance to heat stress: The body gets used to short episodes of heat, which can help in everyday situations like summer heat.
• Habit-building ritual: A planned “mini-escape” to the sauna makes it easier to establish a self-care routine, from hydration to conscious breathing.

It is important to emphasize that the effects depend on the person and the frequency. Instead of idealizing the “power of the sauna”, it is better to adopt a moderate but consistent rhythm of sauna use.

Finnish sauna or infrared: which one is right for you?

• Finnish sauna: drier heat, higher temperature and a traditional experience with the option of pouring stones with a pouring accessory for a short-term increase in humidity. Often the first choice for lovers of the classic ritual and a strong “heat wave”.
• Infrared sauna: lower temperatures, pleasant heat that penetrates deeper into the tissues and faster heating of the cabin. Practical for shorter, more frequent sessions and users more sensitive to very high heat.

The choice depends on objectives, heat sensitivity and available space. Many users choose a combination solution or precision-controlled cabinets that offer fine control over heat and humidity.

Safe use of the sauna

• Start with 8–12 minutes in the cabin and gradually increase your stay to 12–15 minutes, with a break and cool down between cycles.
• Drink plenty of water before and after, avoid alcohol.
• Do not use the sauna immediately after a very intense workout; wait until your pulse and breathing have calmed down.
• If you have cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, skin diseases or are pregnant, consult your doctor beforehand.
• Listen to your body: dizziness, nausea or overheating are signs that it is time to get out and cool down.

With these rules, sauna use remains enjoyable and sustainable, and the habit easily fits into your weekly schedule.

How to choose a home sauna that lasts

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A quality home sauna is recognized by resistant, well-dried wood species, quality insulation, proper ventilation and a reliable stove of appropriate power. Equally important are the ergonomics of the benches, tempered glass, precise digital controls and safety elements. Maintenance should be simple: smooth surfaces, easily accessible elements and service support that ensures longevity.

This is where the Hanscraft and Harvia brand models, available through the expert team of Ivano Bazeni Zadar, stand out. These are solutions that combine elegant design with functional details: carefully processed wood, stable structures, discreet LED lighting and control that allows for a gradual increase in temperature without sudden jumps. Attention paid to air flow and door sealing contributes to a more pleasant feeling of warmth, and economical energy consumption is important for home use.

For smaller spaces, there are compact cabins that fit into an apartment or a small wellness corner, while larger models are practical for family homes and spa areas by the pool. The offer includes variants with ergonomic benches, tempered glass that withstands temperature differences, and a selection of stoves from renowned manufacturers such as Harvia, which makes a difference in operational stability and even heating.

Modular design facilitates assembly and adjustment, while availability of spare parts and professional user education simplify long-term use and maintenance.

When the cabin and equipment are well-chosen, sauna bathing becomes more than a habit – it turns into a pleasant, repeatable experience that supports a healthier lifestyle and brings balance between body and mind.