Saunas can be wet or dry. Wet saunas are often referred to as steam rooms and have a higher level of humidity, according to Sauna Talk. They provide heat through vapor, which is often created by throwing water on top of hot rocks. Dry saunas use the same type of rocks but no water is involved, so no vapor is produced. Sometimes electric or infrared rays are used to produce heat in dry saunas.
Production of Sweat
According to Susan Smith Jones, Ph.D., in an article for Eco Mall website, dry saunas are effective for making you sweat and eliminating toxins accumulated in the body. Dry saunas also require more energy expenditure than wet saunas. As your heartbeat speeds up and your body works hard to produce sweat, your body also burns calories, which could eventually lead to some weight loss. Wet saunas, on the other hand, don't require as much effort, as the sweat is does not evaporate because of the vapor in the room.
Muscle Ache Relief
Dry saunas that work with infrared heat can be used to treat muscle injuries, pains and aches. Dr. Smith Jones points out that because a dry sauna stimulates the dilation of blood vessels, it can help speed up the healing of strains as well as alleviate the pain of arthritis. A dry sauna also helps you relax, which in turn reduces pains and improves your sense of well-being.
Improve Overall Health
According to Sauna Talk, your body temperature can rise up to 100.4° F during a dry sauna session. This can help kill bacteria and viruses, including the one that causes the common cold. In fact, according to a study published in the Annals of Medicine, regular use of a sauna can significantly reduce the incidence of the common cold. A dry sauna also increases heart rate by up to 75 percent, improving circulation and enhancing the immune system.
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