There is a prevalent idea among many of us that steam bath and a steam sauna are equal. While the benefits of both are more or less same, to state that both of them are equal will not be correct. Anyone who is just about to start using either of them should know in details about the many features and how they differ from each other before making the choice. According to experts, in steam bath vs steam sauna, both are winners. They have certain health benefits, and the area of difference can be summed as something like wet vs dry.
When it comes to a sauna, it provides dry heat. Steam baths on the other hand generate moist heat. Using a sauna or a steam bath can help you relax, and rejuvenate your tired body. After a long day at work, or going through a stressful period, anything can be sorted with a visit to the sauna or steam room. There is, perhaps, no better way to unwind and step out looking all fresh. Using the sauna or steam bath can also help with opening the pores and bring a shine to your skin.
In the choice between steam bath vs steam sauna, it is you who is the decision maker. It is all about personal preference at the end of the day, but as mentioned, if you are just a beginner, it does not hurt to know about it a bit more.
How does a sauna work?
Saunas use dry heat. The temperature is a sauna room ranges anywhere between 180 and 195°F. The humidity is very low and the heat is generated from wood, gas or electric. To generate some steam and for humidity, often water is poured over heated rocks. The steam created helps in adding a little humidity.
How does a steam bath work?
In terms of heat, steam baths are not as much hot as saunas. They are more humid. Inside every steam room, there is a device known as a steam generator that boils the water and releases it in the form of steam. A steam room is airtight which boosts the humidity level. The air is damp and water condenses on the walls, the seat and even the floor.
Benefits of Both
If the decision between a sauna bath and steam sauna has to be based on the benefits that each offers, then following are the ones:
Steam sauna gives some cardio benefits and helps to heal joint pains and stiffness. In terms of weight loss, much cannot be expected, but it helps in reducing the water weight to some extent. However, those with respiratory problems like asthma and allergies can benefit from visiting a steam room. Steam helps in keeping the lungs moisturized and the respiratory tract hydrated.
A visit to the sauna room can help in improved blood circulation and cardiovascular health. Those who are in the habit of using a sauna frequently have a lower risk of stroke, dementia and a heart attack. It does not need a mention that like a steam bath, saunas too promises cardio benefits. Sore and joint aches, or muscle stiffness can benefit from spending some time in a sauna bath. It also helps in improving the mood.
