Saunas and Steam Baths
Hard day at work? No problem! Not when you come home to a lavish personal sauna  that produces near spa-like experiences and offers health benefits galore, such as stimulating weight loss, improving circulation, aiding in pain management and relieving arthritis. Not only are spas and saunas a great way to relax, destress and clear out your head, but they also help detoxify your body from heavy metals and clear your pores. Have no fear about treating yourself to one of these wonders, since the prices to install and maintain them are comparatively low in the long run. The simplest of models start around $1000, but high-end models can run as high as $5000 or more. Essentially, all saunas will provide the same healthy results. There are, however, several varieties to choose from depending on the space you want to fill, your budget, and your style.
Choosing a Sauna
Sauna Type- There are two basic types to choose from, one of which is a steam bath and the other being a dry sauna. Basically, you should take into consideration what type of sauna you usually frequent and which style you prefer since they are quite different. A dry sauna, also known as a Finnish sauna, may get up to 180°F while remaining bone dry. They are usually built from cedar and stainless steel. A steam sauna, similar to a Russian sauna, steam bath or hammam, maintains a constant 100% humidity level. These look more like showers.
Size
- The larger the sauna, the more people can sit in it at once. If you have a large family interested in spending time in the sauna, you should look for one that can accommodate at least four people. For just yourself and maybe a partner, a two-person sauna is adequate. Also consider the placement of the sauna. Since they take up quite a bit of room always do your measurements before purchasing and don't forget about the door (they always swing outwards). Smaller saunas are most suited for indoor use while the larger variety might be best for use poolside. Note that the larger the sauna, the longer it will take to heat up and the more energy it will require.
Mobility- Saunas aren't exactly portable. Once you invest in a sauna and have it installed in your home, it's usually there to stay. There is one exception though, and that is for portable saunas ; collapsible, individual wet saunas that fold up like a suitcase. The bench inside collapses inside the zip up pouch, which you can then transport as needed. While they cost $600 or less and provide the same benefits as a full-size sauna, they are restrictive and not as comfortable as a real sauna since your head sticks out the top. These are not suitable for those looking to lounge around in the sauna with friends or family. Modular saunas are best option if you are looking for something semi-portable. They are pre-fabricated units that are lighter in weight and often smaller. The best part about them is that they require minimal assembly if any and they install by plugging them into an outlet. If you plan on moving in the future and want to take the sauna with you, you would be best looking into this type of sauna.
Assembly
- Most home saunas require significant assembly. Modular dry saunas, on the other hand, come partially assembled so that even the worst handy-man can set them up without trouble. These are pre-built sauna kits that come in two pieces maximum. They are as stress free to install as they are to sit in. In just a few hours you can have a spa-style sauna in the comfort of your own home and the hassle of installing pipes and remodeling your home is eliminated. Another great thing about modular saunas is that if you decide to move you can always take it with you. They also have lots of styling options, including windows, different door deigns, benches, integrated ergonomical backrests, exterior LCD screens for temperature and timing controls.
Infrared Option- These are especially useful for providing allergy relief and are suitable for users who dislike the extreme heat of a dry sauna. Unlike traditional Finnish style saunas mentioned above, this style has only recently been introduced to the market. It is different because instead of using hot rocks to heat the sauna, it uses infrared technology. What this means for the user is that they don't have to adjust the humidity level in the sauna by splashing water onto the rocks. Also, infrared heats up the body core directly and not the surrounding air, so it keeps the sauna environment cooler. This means you can then stay in the sauna longer. Ultimately, these sauna types will hold up longer than their Finnish counterparts. For even more convenience, try a self-cleaning model.
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