The World of Sauna: More Than Just Heat
Sauna is an ancient tradition practised worldwide. But not all saunas are created equal. Whether you're a seasoned sauna enthusiast or looking to visit a private sauna for the first time, understanding the differences between sauna types helps you make the perfect choice for your body and mind.
At Sauna Delizia, we offer different sauna experiences in our exclusive private suites. In this article, we dive deep into the three most popular sauna types: the classic Finnish sauna, the gentle infrared sauna and the mysterious hammam (steam bath).
The Finnish Sauna: The Classic Choice
Origin and Tradition
The Finnish sauna is the oldest and best-known sauna type in the world. For over 2,000 years, the sauna has been a central part of Finnish culture. Finland has more saunas than cars – impressive proof of how deeply rooted this tradition is.
How Does a Finnish Sauna Work?
A Finnish sauna works with dry heat generated by an electric or wood-burning stove. The temperature typically ranges between 70°C and 100°C, with low humidity of just 10-20%. By pouring water over hot stones (the so-called löyly), you can create brief steam bursts that temporarily moisten the air.
Health Benefits of the Finnish Sauna
The benefits of regular Finnish sauna use are extensively documented by scientific research:
Who Is the Finnish Sauna Suitable For?
The Finnish sauna is ideal for people who enjoy intense heat and seek a powerful sauna experience. It's particularly suitable for:
At Sauna Delizia, you can experience the Finnish sauna in several of our suites, including Urban Jungle and Arabian Night, each with their own unique atmosphere and facilities.
The Infrared Sauna: Gentle Deep Action
What Is Infrared?
Unlike the Finnish sauna, which heats the air in the cabin, an infrared sauna uses infrared radiation to heat your body directly. This is the same form of heat you feel from the sun, but without harmful UV radiation.
How Does an Infrared Sauna Work?
Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures than Finnish saunas, typically between 45°C and 65°C. Despite the lower temperature, infrared heat penetrates 3 to 4 centimetres deep into your skin, muscles and joints. This causes intense warming from within, making you sweat more than in a traditional sauna at the same temperature.
Health Benefits of Infrared
Who Is the Infrared Sauna Suitable For?
The infrared sauna is perfect for:
The Hammam: Oriental Steam Experience
A Journey Through Time
The hammam, also known as a Turkish bath, has its roots in ancient Rome and the Ottoman Empire. The word "hammam" comes from the Arabic word for "heat". In the Middle East and North Africa, the hammam was for centuries the social heart of the community.
At Sauna Delizia, we bring this rich Oriental tradition to life in our Arabian Night suite, where you'll be surrounded by Moroccan mosaics, warm gold tones and exotic fragrances.
How Does a Hammam Work?
A hammam works with steam at a relatively low temperature of 40°C to 50°C, but with very high humidity of 80-100%. The experience traditionally consists of several phases:
Health Benefits of the Hammam
Comparison Table: Which Sauna Type Will You Choose?
| Feature | Finnish Sauna | Infrared Sauna | Hammam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70-100°C | 45-65°C | 40-50°C |
| Humidity | 10-20% | Low | 80-100% |
| Session duration | 10-20 min | 20-45 min | 30-60 min |
| Heating time | 30-45 min | 10-15 min | 15-20 min |
| Intensity | High | Medium | Low-Medium |
| Best for | Muscles, immunity | Pain relief, skin | Skin cleansing, relaxation |
| Suitable for beginners | Moderately | Very suitable | Very suitable |
Combine Sauna Types for Optimal Effect
The most experienced sauna enthusiasts know that combining different sauna types yields the best results. At Sauna Delizia, you can experience multiple heat sources within a single session:
Our Zelia Suite and Urban Jungle offer the perfect combination of sauna, pool and jacuzzi for this alternating experience.
Tips for Your First Sauna Visit
Preparation
During the Session
After the Session
Learn more about the health benefits of sauna.
Experience It Yourself at Sauna Delizia
Now that you know the differences between sauna types, it's time to experience them yourself. At Sauna Delizia in Rumst, near Antwerp, you always enjoy in complete privacy with your partner, family or friends.
Each of our five unique private suites offers a different atmosphere and sauna combination. Discover all our private suites and combine your visit with one of our professional massages for the ultimate wellness experience.
