The Sauna Experience
Supervision and Safety.
Saunas are safe for most people providing one follows a few simple rules. When starting out, remain inside no longer than 30 minutes at a time. Those in good health in time may extend this to 50 minutes. Rest lying or sitting for 10 minutes afterwards. This helps the body eliminate dead cells and other debris. Drink mineralized water before and after the sauna. Make sure the bowels move regularly, as sauna therapy will increase elimination.
Use the sauna with supervision if you have a chronic condition. If debilitated or very heat-sensitive, begin with a shorter time. The presence of an attendant or friend is also most helpful. Those with multiple, sclerosis, hyperthyroidism, hypertension or serious heart conditions should consult a health professional.
Slow metabolizers may use the sauna up to twice a day. Upon arising and at bedtime are excellent if time permits. Evening is probably best if you use it once a day. If ill, however, the morning is better when energy levels are higher. Less often is also acceptable if beginning or to maintain your health. If you are very debilitated, begin with once a week. Work up to daily use as you feel able. Fast metabolizers or those whose temperature runs high may use the sauna once or twice a week.
Taking the Sauna. Drink a glass of mineralized water before entering the sauna. Drinking water while in the sauna is not recommended. Add juice or minerals to your water if it is mineral-free. The infrared sauna will not work through clothing. Men, position yourselves so the testicles are not directly exposed to infrared energy. Pass the time meditating or review your day. Use a small towel to wipe off the sweat. Not recommended are talking or working in the sauna.
Ventilate the sauna to avoid breathing toxic gases. This may be built into the design. If you use a bathroom or closet, leave the door slightly ajar.
Bulb Saunas. Turn every few minutes if your sauna uses heat bulbs. Sit on a stool or a chair without a back. Face the bulbs, turn to the side and around to the back. Avoid touching the hot bulbs, though looking at them is okay. Do not let water, a towel or clothing touch the bulbs when they are on. The bulb sauna also provides warming and stimulating color therapy.
Finishing Up. How long you remain inside the sauna depends on your condition. Those who are ill should begin slowly. The sauna should not heat up to more than 1150. Body temperature should not increase more than four degrees. Your pulse should not increase more than 50% of the resting pulse. Fifty minutes is a maximum time. Some days you will sweat more than others.
