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Although many of the new technologies in sauna therapy have been built for indoor models, outdoor saunas are still a wonderful and beautiful feature for any sauna aficionado. Outdoor saunas are a tradition that goes back hundreds if not thousands of years and have benefited a multitude of cultures and people. Back in ancient times Finnish women would use saunas to give birth. Their belief, rightfully so, was that the sauna environment was a healthier one. Heat helped kill bacteria during child birth and even killed head lice during everyday life. Furthermore the sweat generated from sauna therapy would let ancient people clean themselves of the dirt and grind of ancient living. |
Cedar is an excellent choice for outdoor saunas. It is a durable wood the handles water and moisture very well. If you don’t mind a little discoloration, than Cedar is the wood for you. One fact many people overlook is that Cedar has microbial properties that destroy many of the bacteria produced from sweat and perspiration. This helps keep your sauna clean and smelling good. Furthermore, Cedar can absorb a tremendous amount of liquid and return to its original state without damage, unlike many other woods that will crack and split. The outdoor sauna will appreciate the fact that Cedar has natural terminate repellents in its composition.
Since outdoor saunas must handle the elements, the heating system must be contained inside the unit and under a roof. Most of the indoor saunas are using Infrared heat which is created by using energy wavelengths generated in the roof of the unit. In fact all the electrical equipment is stored in the roof, which would be compromised if stored outdoors. Outdoor saunas will have to use either a wood burning heater or a self contained electrical heater. Both are common and can be purchased from the manufacturer.
Outdoor saunas are a tremendous way to appreciate sauna therapy as it was originally invented. It brings nature back into the picture and is a wonderful way to relax and unwind. Outdoor saunas will probably not have the durability and longevity of their indoor brothers, but they will bring all the same benefits and joys that sauna therapy has to offer. |