The steam bath offers a particularly soothing sauna experience, where not the heat, but the high humidity is the focus. With its mild temperature and almost 100 percent humidity, it ensures deep breathing, gentle cleansing of the skin, and a relaxing effect on the muscles. Unlike the classic sauna, the steam bath is gentler on the circulatory system and is therefore ideal for people who prefer a less intense heat application.
In the steam bath, temperatures range from about 40 to 50 degrees. Despite the mild warmth, the moist air feels particularly intense as it moistens the skin and opens the airways. The warm water in the air condenses on the skin, creating a gentle film of sweat. This process deeply cleanses the skin, opens the pores, and makes it softer and more supple. At the same time, the moist air promotes the regeneration of the airways and can help alleviate respiratory issues such as bronchitis or colds.
A stay in the steam bath usually lasts between 10 and 20 minutes, as the moist heat works gently but deeply. After the steam bath, a cooling down traditionally follows, often with cold water or fresh air, to revitalize the body and stimulate circulation.
The steam bath has numerous positive effects on the body. The moist heat relieves muscle tension and can alleviate chronic pain. The intense moisturizing of the airways also has an expectorant effect and promotes free breathing. The steam bath also has a stimulating effect on the immune system by encouraging the body to detoxify and improving circulation. The steam bath is particularly beneficial for people with sensitive skin, as the moist warmth soothes and revitalizes the skin.
In addition to the physical effects, the steam bath also offers mental relaxation. The dense, warm steam and often dimmed atmosphere create a calming environment that reduces stress and allows the mind to come to rest. Many steam baths are additionally enriched with essential oils such as eucalyptus or mint, which make the experience even more intense and beneficial for the airways.
The steam bath is ideal for anyone seeking gentle yet profound relaxation. It combines the cleansing effect of moist warmth with a calming and regenerating atmosphere that pampers both body and mind.