The Scandahoovian

The challenge of getting into the heat on a daily basis can be ridiculous at times. It may seem silly, but honestly, if you need a fix, a DIY sauna will work for a day or two until you can make it to the next sauna. But for the love of heat, do not subject your bathroom in your home to this daily. The homemade sauna is not a long-term solution and does not include all the added benefits of going to a public sauna, including socialization and knowledge exchange.

If you want to experience the benefits of a sauna but don’t have access to one, you can turn your shower into a DIY sauna.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Clean your bathroom: Start by cleaning your bathroom to create a relaxing and comfortable environment. This will help you to feel more at ease during your sauna session.
2. Start the shower: Turn on the shower and let it run for a few minutes to heat up the room.
3. Block the drain: Block the shower drain with a towel or stopper to create steam in the shower. This will also help to keep the heat in.
4. Adjust the water temperature: Adjust the water temperature to the highest setting possible without making it too hot to handle. You want the water to create steam in the shower.
5. Add essential oils: Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the shower floor to create a relaxing and invigorating aroma. Lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint are all great options.
6. Sit and relax: Once the shower is hot and steamy, sit in the shower and relax. Make sure to wear a towel or robe to protect your skin from the hot water.
7. Breathe deeply: Take slow, deep breaths to relax and clear your mind. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth.
8. Stay hydrated: Bring a glass of water with you into the shower and sip it throughout your session. This will help to keep you hydrated and regulate your body temperature.
9. Listen to music: Turn on some relaxing music to help you unwind and create a calming atmosphere. This can help to enhance the sauna experience.
10. Cool down: After about 15-20 minutes, turn off the shower and cool down slowly. Open the shower door to let some cool air in and then step out of the shower.

Full submersion into very hot water is more effective, I have eczema, I can not submerge myself in hot water for any amount of time, none the less the time I would need it to be beneficial. This is why I choose the shower sauna and add several layers of clothing. 

By following these steps, you can recreate the sauna experience at home with just your shower. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body. If you feel lightheaded or dizzy, stop the session immediately and cool down.

The DIY sauna Risks: Moisture

After completing your sauna shower experience, it’s important to properly ventilate the area to prevent mold and mildew growth. Make sure to open a window or turn on a bathroom fan to allow the steam and moisture to escape. You can also use a towel to wipe down the walls and floor to absorb any excess moisture. This will help prevent any rot or water damage to your bathroom. It’s recommended to let the bathroom air out for at least 10-15 minutes after your sauna shower to ensure proper ventilation. With these precautions, you can enjoy a relaxing sauna shower experience in the comfort of your own home without any negative effects on your bathroom.