Saunas are the best option for those who like to get rejuvenation and relaxation in a different way. Although saunas have become highly popular, very few people know about their origin and evolution. A sauna was originally a Finnish culture. But, today, people all over the world have become familiar with it.
The term ‘sauna’ denotes something related to a heating system that activates perspiration or sweating. In Finnish, sauna means bathhouse. Although Finland is not much aware of heat therapy, the sauna tradition is associated with this country.
The original concept of sauna
When humans learned the way to light a fire, it resulted in the development of saunas. Fire enabled ancestors to prepare food and heat their bodies intentionally. The first constructed sauna was in Africa. People at that time used saunas to avoid infectious diseases. Although the sauna structure was very simple, the process was highly effective.
Leaders in the tribal medicinal field took the responsibility of digging holes to fit a normal human body. After lighting the fire inside this hole, users can heat their body. Poles are installed in the area to develop a seat. Perspiration caused by the sauna promotes the purification process.
Bathhouses in Greece and Rome
Bathhouses in these countries led to the development of modern spas and saunas. In the ancient period, heat therapy was highly popular, as people were familiar with steam rooms. Besides, specially designed bathhouses helped them cleanse the body with the sweating process. It opens up the pores, and the body gets detoxified.
Body purification was a ritual performed in social places and political events. Government authorities developed bathhouses for people of different social classes.
Hammam in Turkey
A bathhouse in Turkey was known as Hammam, and it was set up in buildings. It was a safe place for social and spiritual communion. Hammam gained high popularity, and it was used to celebrate physical nudity. Those who used Hammam preferred relaxation in hot rooms. Moreover, Hammam was much similar to modern spas.
The tradition of using a sweat lodge
Several Native Americans used to celebrate the custom of using sweat lodges. However, the practices related to these lodges were different in every region. Elders were the leaders of ceremonies in sweat lodges.
The lodge could establish a connection between your body and spirit.
Sauna history in other countries-
You could trace the use of steam rooms or heat in the ancient age in different countries. Ancient Egyptians used to treat the body with hot springs. Besides, Russia has a history of using thermal treatment to trigger sweating. Again, Indians use heat therapy in the Ayurvedic field.
In Laos, sauna therapy involves using herbs, and especially women like to have this treatment after childbirth. Like Egyptians, Japanese people use hot springs to treat various ailments and maintain health.
The sauna history is fascinating, and as it provides healing effects, it will never lose its value. Today, many companies have created infrared saunas to give you the best result.
Read More
