The health benefits of saunas have been enjoyed by many for centuries.
These are small rooms or enclosed areas that are specially designed for dry or wet heat sessions.
Originally traced from Finnish origin, they are made for relaxation and sweating.
During a session, people are exposed to temperatures not lower than 80 degrees centigrade.
Among the health benefits of saunas include stress relief, increased blood flow, flushing of toxins in the body, stimulation of the immune system, loosening of fatty tissue, and relief of muscle strain among others.
There are various materials and construction used for building saunas today.
One of the oldest types of construction are barrel saunas.
These barrel-shaped wooden units are built of cedar or redwood placed under steam pressure.
Units constructed of this design are stain and odor resistant making it easier to clean and maintain.
Also, saunas that are barrel-shaped offer more air exchange than square-shaped saunas.
The shape of the barrel allows for faster heating and more even distribution of heat and moisture.
This makes for a more efficient sauna treatment session.
The most common equipment that comes with barrel saunas include a heat source, lighting fixtures, benches, buckets and ladles, towel racks, sauna rocks, and gauges to monitor temperature.
Barrel saunas are barrel-shaped and commonly found as separate structures located outdoors.
Home units of this kind are usually installed on decks or in yards.
In spa resorts, this kind of saunas serves as sweat lodges.
Since the sauna is constructed of wood, it jives well with the all-natural rejuvenation and detoxification offered by the sauna therapeutic experience.