What is the difference between steaming and sauna?

　　Nowadays, with the rise of health craze, steaming and sauna have become many people’s choice to soothe their body and mind, but the two are often confused. There are obvious differences between the two in terms of working principle, experience and suitable groups. Only by correct distinction can the health-preserving effect be better exerted.

What is the difference between steaming and sauna?

　　1. Different working principles

　　Sauna uses high-temperature steam to directly act on the human body, using heat conduction to quickly increase the body surface temperature.； Sweating uses special materials to release far-infrared rays, which act on the deep tissues of the human body and increase core temperature from the inside out.

　　2. Differences in temperature and humidity

　　The temperature of sauna is relatively high, usually between 70-100℃, and the humidity is also high, usually maintained at 80%-100%. The feeling of stuffiness is obvious during the experience.； The temperature of sweat steaming is moderate, mostly between 40-60℃, and the humidity is low, about 30%-50%. The experience is dry and comfortable, and it is not easy to feel stuffy.

　　3. Characteristics and effects of sweating

　　Sauna causes the human body to sweat rapidly and profusely. Most of the sweat is body surface water. Rapid loss can easily lead to dehydration.； Sweating is a slow perspiration process. In addition to water, sweat also contains some metabolic waste. Sweating is even, which has less impact on body fluid balance and is more conducive to the elimination of toxins.

　　4. Suitable for different groups of people

　　Sauna has high temperature and humidity, which is more suitable for healthy young adults. Patients with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, high blood pressure and those with weak constitutions need to be cautious.； Sweat steaming is gentle and comfortable, and is suitable for a wider range of people. Except for patients with serious diseases, most people can try it, and it is especially suitable for people with cold constitution and heavy moisture.

What are the health precautions for steaming and sauna?

　　1. Control duration and frequency

　　For first-timers, each session should last no more than 15 minutes. After getting used to it, it can be extended to 20-30 minutes, preferably 1-2 times a week. Staying for too long can easily lead to dizziness, fatigue and other discomforts, and increase the burden on the body.

　　2. Fully replenish water

　　You need to drink an appropriate amount of warm water before, during and after the experience, 100-200ml each time. Avoid drinking ice water or sugary drinks to prevent gastrointestinal irritation or aggravating the risk of dehydration.

　　3. Avoid special periods

　　It should not be performed on an empty stomach or within 1 hour after a meal.； Women should avoid it during menstruation and pregnancy ； If your physical condition is unstable after drinking or strenuous exercise, you should also suspend the experience.

　　Although steaming and sauna both use "heat" as the core health-preserving method, they have different emphasis. Only by choosing the appropriate method according to your own body constitution and following the precautions can you achieve the purpose of nourishing your body while enjoying comfort.