Saunas have been around since 2000 BC. Back then, man-made Northern European caves blazed with hot stones and roaring fires to keep villagers warm during the bitter cold. Fast forward to the present — saunas have evolved phenomenally and how.
Sauna technology now employs infrared heat to generate heat and warm the body directly. There have also been advancements that elevate the ambiance of a simple sauna. From soothing lighting and calming music to wireless control systems that regulate heat at the touch of a button, the humble sauna has transformed in unimaginable ways.
It’s evident that sauna technology will continue to evolve as we move forward, making wellness accessible to all. Let’s look at some of the incredible influence of technology on the sauna experience.
Wireless Technology Makes For a Smart Sauna Experience
Imagine driving home from work and preheating your sauna from your car so you can relax the moment you walk in the door. Indeed, modern-day saunas have adapted to the ways of the wireless world.
The majority of sauna units now feature wireless systems. This allows users to access and regulate their sauna functions remotely.
With the help of their smartphone or tablet, sauna users can:
- Set a timer
- Preheat the sauna
- Adjust the sauna temperature
- Adjust the lighting
- Turn on their favorite music
Two of the most popular sauna control systems are:
- Harvia Xenio Sauna Control System
- HUUM UKU Wifi Sauna Control System
Remote kits like Harvia Xenio and HUUM provide sauna users with a smart control panel that they can install anywhere in the home — even outside the sauna. Its intuitive control panel allows you to alter a range of sauna features with a single touch. For example, you can choose from a variety of temperature settings to find the one that is best for you.
Harvia Xenio is also compatible with the MyHarvia app, which is optimized for smartphones and tablets. This means you can control functions like lighting, temperature, and ventilation from anywhere. Built-in safety controls also ensure your sauna is safe for remote heat settings.
The HUUM control system is optimized for smartphone use, and there is an additional child safety lock and an overheating safeguard in place too.
Audio Controls Create a Sensory Experience
Some people like to spend their sauna sessions in silence. However, many people prefer an audio dimension to their sauna experience to help them relax.
Most modern saunas now include sophisticated audio controls such as:
- Bluetooth speakers
- CD and MP3 auxiliary connectors
- Built-in FM radio
- Soundbars
You can connect your devices to these controls to listen to your favorite podcast or play your favorite song. Some saunas even have built-in audio panels. With these, you can create a multi-sensory sauna experience by selecting from a library of calming sounds.
Using LED/Chromotherapy Lighting to Set the Mood
Sauna manufacturers have caught on to the importance of lighting in a sauna, which can make or break the mood. Like the MX-K306-01 Maxxus Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna, many of them have integrated sauna kits with LED mood lighting controls to enhance the sauna experience.
You can choose from soft, ambient lighting or warm lighting controls to create a cozy sauna experience. The great thing is that LED lighting is energy-efficient, making it a cost-friendly feature. It also emits less heat and doesn’t interfere with the sauna temperature.
Aside from LED displays, the chromotherapy lighting system is also a major sauna trend. Chromotherapy is a type of light therapy typically used in infrared saunas. It uses the vibrational energy of light to restore balance within the body. Each light color is known to have distinct benefits, from enhancing blood circulation to lowering blood pressure.
Many saunas have in-built chromotherapy lighting systems that allow you to choose from a wide spectrum of colors.
Optimal Heating Technology
Traditional saunas warm the air in a sauna, which indirectly heats our bodies. However, infrared saunas produce radiant heat and penetrate our skin directly. Infrared heating technology has progressed throughout the years, providing deeper therapeutic advantages.
Infrared saunas now come in a variety of wavelengths, including:
- Near-infrared
- Mid-infrared
- Far-infrared
Each wavelength penetrates our bodies differently, producing distinct benefits.
Saunas now employ efficient heating systems that provide more balanced coverage by reducing hotspots. A sophisticated ventilation system is also standard in most saunas. It enables fresh air circulation into the sauna without compromising heat retention.
Final Words
Sauna technology has elevated saunas to a holistic wellness experience that engages multiple senses. Saunas today feature functions tailored to your preferences, offering a more personalized experience.
Any adjustments to these features can be made at your fingertips, giving you complete control over your sauna experience. For more insight into the tech-enhanced sauna experience, check out some of the top ideas for automating a home sauna.
If you wish to commit to the idea of a hi-tech home sauna, visit My Sauna World. Besides infrared saunas, we provide a collection of traditional saunas with advanced tech features. Check out our high-quality saunas today.