Few things are more relaxing than a sauna session, where stress melts away and your body is rejuvenated. When deciding between outdoor infrared saunas and home-based models, consider how each fits into your lifestyle and its influence on the relaxation gained in your session, health advantages, and convenience of use.
In this article, we’ll look at the fundamental distinctions between these two types of saunas to help you decide which one is right for you – join the team at Sun Stream Saunas AUS below!
The science behind infrared saunas
Infrared (IR) saunas use its namesake light to heat the body directly by resonating with photoreceptors present in the epidermis, rather than warming the surrounding air as traditional saunas do. This heating approach penetrates deeper into the skin, providing a variety of health advantages like increased circulation, detoxification, and muscle relaxation. Keeping this in mind, the environment in which you reap these benefits may make all the difference.
Outdoor infrared saunas: Immersing yourself in nature
Advantages
- Natural ambience for deeper relaxation: Placing your sauna outdoors immerses you in an environmental context – a factor that has been found to psychologically recover and aid mental wellbeing, by virtue of biological programming and association of nature with survival. Whether it’s the presence of trees, the sound of birdsong, or even under a starry sky, exposure to the minutiae in this scene can trigger physiological responses in stress reduction and attention drain.
- Space and ventilation: Outdoor saunas often offer more room and better ventilation options than indoor models. The open-air environment around the sauna ensures adequate airflow, which can enhance comfort during your session – location, with this being said, can greatly influence the quality of this facet in treatment, urging careful scrutiny of where users exactly install their sauna unit.
- Aesthetic appeal: Modern outdoor saunas can double as architectural features, adding a touch of luxury to your backyard or garden.
Considerations
- Weather dependency: Outdoor saunas require extra care to withstand the environmental elements. It is recommended to protect your saunas with canvas covers made from high-quality materials.
- Setup costs: Installing an outdoor sauna may require additional costs for electrical wiring, foundation work, and weather-proofing.
- Accessibility: While being outdoors is refreshing, getting to your sauna in inclement weather might reduce its appeal.
Indoor infrared saunas: Convenient comfort
Advantages
- Ease of access: With a home sauna, relaxation is always just a few steps away. Whether you need a quick session after work or a longer retreat on the weekend, it’s ready whenever you are.
- Weather-proof: Rain, heatwaves, and winter cold will not disrupt your sauna session. Indoors, you can have a consistent, regulated environment all year.
- Customisation options: Home saunas are available in various sizes and designs to fit your space—be it a spare room, bathroom, or even a walk-in closet. Many models also have additional features like Bluetooth speakers, chromotherapy lights, or ergonomic benches.
Considerations
- Space constraints: Indoor saunas require dedicated space, which might be a challenge in smaller homes.
- Limited ambience: While indoor saunas offer convenience, they lack the natural tranquillity of outdoor settings.
Key factors to consider
When deciding between home and outdoor infrared saunas, it helps to weigh the following:
- Lifestyle: Do you prioritise convenience or value the immersive experience of being outdoors? If you love nature, an outdoor sauna might enhance your relaxation. However, an indoor sauna is ideal if you need quick, hassle-free access.
- Space and budget: Outdoor saunas typically require more initial investment but add property value and visual appeal. Home saunas can be more affordable upfront but might require renovations to accommodate them.
- Long-term goals: Consider your health and wellness objectives. Both options offer the same health benefits, but the overall experience might differ based on your choice of location.
Latest trends in sauna technology
Technological advancements help both outdoor and indoor saunas. Smart temperature controls, energy-efficient designs, and mobile app connectivity make sauna experiences more convenient and customisable. Look for models with these characteristics for increased convenience and efficiency.
Making the right choice
Choosing between indoor and outdoor infrared saunas ultimately depends on your preferences and circumstances – an outdoor sauna could be transformative if you’re seeking a serene, natural retreat. On the other hand, if practicality and year-round comfort are your priorities, a home sauna may be the better option. Regardless of your choice, what matters most is creating a space where you can unwind and invest in your well-being.
Sun Stream Saunas AU is dedicated to providing high-quality infrared saunas that fit your lifestyle. For those who are more keen on an indoor experience, our saunas provide unparalleled workmanship, modern technology, and wellness advantages. Visit our website today to see how we can help you improve your relaxation experience.