HEALTH AND WELLNESS BENEFITS OF GROUP SAUNA SESSIONS IN A 6 PERSON SAUNA

In recent years, the ancient practice of using saunas has regained popularity as an effective way to promote physical and mental health. But did you know that group saunas can offer more than just a moment of zen? 

Group sauna sessions, particularly in a 6 person sauna like Almost Heaven Olympus, can facilitate community bonding, physical fitness, mental acuity, and perhaps most importantly, serve as an outlet for stress. Besides that, group sauna sessions create a unique environment to foster connections that can last beyond the sauna itself. 

Read on to learn about the advantages of using a 6 person sauna and essential tips for making the most of your group sauna experience.

Benefits of Group Sauna Sessions in a 6 person Sauna

Unlike mini saunas or 1 person saunas, whose primary focus is privacy and individualized relaxation, 6 person saunas provide a communal space for shared wellness experiences. Following are some of the benefits of a group sauna session in a 6 person sauna:

Improved Circulation

One of the most significant advantages of using a 6 person sauna in a group setting is the improvement in circulation. When your body gets exposed to high temperatures in a sauna, your blood vessels expand. 

Studies explain that this increased blood flow helps facilitate muscle tissue repair, reducing recovery time following rigorous exercise or physical activity while decreasing pain and swelling. 

Reduced Stress

Stepping into a 6 person sauna with your favorite people is not only a great way to destress and find your inner calm. While the high heat and humidity are known to trigger the release of endorphins (your body's feel-good hormones), there's more to the experience when shared with our favorite people. 

Research shows that a solid social support system can help reduce stress-induced cortisol release, making you feel more relaxed and calm after a group sauna session. Mental Help further explains that the very act of engaging with your close friends increases your oxytocin levels. 

Oxytocin stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms down your body's responses to stress. The result is a feeling of bliss and well-being, which makes it easier to handle the challenges of everyday life.

Aids in Weight Loss

If exercising is somewhat uninspiring, try a group sauna workout in a 6 person sauna. Since 6 person saunas are pretty spacious, you can perform a series of yoga poses, stretch exercises, or meditative movements with your wellness squad. 

As the heat amplifies your workout output, you can get a greater return on your effort without over-taxing your body. NBC News notes that working out in a group encourages you to push yourself further, increasing the intensity and efficiency of your workouts.

Enhanced Social Interaction

As opposed to a traditional 1-person sauna, a 6 person can significantly enhance your social interaction. A six-person sauna isn't only an investment for your physical wellness and a catalyst for quality social interaction. 

As large as it is, a six-person sauna creates an intimate, relaxed, and quiet environment away from the distractions of daily life. This makes it an ideal place for unwinding, discussing life, and sharing your dreams and aspirations with friends. 

Types of 6 person Saunas

When it comes to 6 person saunas, you can choose from several different types, including:

Outdoor

Often made of cedar wood, 4-person or 6 person outdoor saunas are designed to withstand various weather conditions. These saunas are usually supported by polymer cradles that keep them elevated to prevent moisture damage. 

They can be a beautiful addition to your backyard or garden area and allow you to enjoy the sauna experience outdoors. 

Indoor

6 person indoor saunas are designed to be installed inside your home. This could be in the bathroom, basement, or a dedicated wellness area. They are made of thermally treated hemlock that can withstand high temperature and humidity levels. 

Indoor saunas offer more protection from the elements and can be used all year round, irrespective of the weather conditions outside. However, to avoid issues, ensure proper ventilation while installing large indoor saunas like 2-person, 3-person, or 6 person models. 

Traditional

Traditional 6 person or Finnish saunas generate heat using a wood-burning or electric stove. The stove heats rocks, which produce hot steam upon contact with water. The steam, in turn, heats the air in the sauna room. A traditional sauna can reach higher temperatures and humidity levels, offering a complete 'sweating out' experience.

Infrared

2-person or 6 person infrared saunas use infrared heaters that emit far-infrared rays to penetrate deep into your body and warm up the tissues directly without needing water or steam. Infrared saunas can work at lower temperatures, making them more comfortable for people who are claustrophobic or heat sensitive. 

Best 6 Person Saunas for Group Sauna Session 

Following are our top picks for 6 person saunas for group sauna sessions:

What To Look For Before Buying 6 Person Sauna

Consider the following factors before buying a 6 person sauna:

Space

6 person saunas can range significantly in size, with some models that can be compact, while others can require substantial space, particularly if you're looking at outdoor models. 

Before buying, measure your space and make sure it fits in comfortably. While deciding on the location, consider ventilation and access to power for the sauna.

Budget

A six-person sauna can vary widely in price depending on the brand, materials used, included features, and heating mechanism. Figure out how much you're comfortable with spending beforehand.

Remember that going for the least expensive mode is not always beneficial, as that can compromise quality and features. This can lead to costly repairs and replacements down the road.

Safety

Safety is paramount in any sauna purchase. A 6 person or an 8-person sauna should come with safety timers and temperature controls and should be made from non-toxic material. 

All electrical components should be suitably insulated, and the product must adhere to safety regulations. Doors should open outward in case of an emergency, and heaters should have protective covers to prevent burns.

Features

Different 6 person saunas come with varying features to elevate your sauna experience. Some saunas may have multi-level seating, lighting options, Bluetooth speakers, and advanced digital controls. A higher-end model may provide facilities such as aromatherapy, built-in entertainment systems, and chromotherapy. 

The type of features you choose will depend on your needs and personal preference, but it’s important to note that the advanced features can increase the price, so you must factor in your budget before purchasing.

Material quality

High-quality saunas are often built with traditional woods like cedar, hemlock, or spruce due to their effective heat insulation and resistance to decay. 

Cedarwood, in particular, has a pleasing aroma that lends an earthy feel while relaxing in a sauna. The wood used in your sauna should be smooth and have a solid feel so that it doesn’t splinter or crack when exposed to moisture.

Heating mechanism

There are two common types of heating mechanisms in saunas — traditional steam saunas and infrared saunas. Traditional steam saunas heat the air in the sauna, which in turn heats your body. 

Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use infrared lamps to warm your body directly. The choice between the two largely depends on personal preference and your wellness goals.

Energy efficiency

The energy efficiency of a sauna plays a crucial role in ongoing running costs. 6 person infrared saunas usually have a high energy efficiency rating, which means they are more efficient at converting electricity to heat than other types of saunas. This will help you save money on energy bills over the long term.

Ease of maintenance

Since the sauna’s hot and humid environment can be a breeding ground for bacteria, it’s essential to keep it clean to prevent any health concerns, including infections and skin rashes. 

Some 6 person sauna models may require periodic treatments or specific cleaning routines, while others, like infrared saunas, are designed to be low-maintenance because they don't produce moisture. Look for one that has a removable panel and easy-to-clean surfaces for hassle-free maintenance.

Potential Risks and Precautions When Using a 6 Person Sauna

Using a sauna can have many health benefits, such as easing pain, reducing stress, and improving cardiovascular health. However, you should be aware of some potential risks and precautions, especially if using a 6 person sauna with others. 

Some of the risks and precautions are:

• Avoid alcohol or other medications that may impair your sweating and potentially lead to overheating. Alcohol can also increase the risk of dehydration, low blood pressure, and arrhythmia, per The New York Times.

• Avoid staying in more than 15–20 minutes at a time. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, or fainting.

• Cool down gradually afterward. Do not jump into cold water or expose yourself to sudden temperature changes, which can raise blood pressure and strain your heart.

• Drink plenty of water after your session to replenish the fluids you lost through sweating. You may also need to replace electrolytes if you sweat a lot.

• Don’t take a sauna when you are ill, and if you feel unwell during your sauna, head for the door. Symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, or chest pain may indicate a serious problem and require immediate medical attention.

• Know that saunas can burn. The heating elements, rocks, benches, and sauna doors can be very hot and cause burns if you touch them with bare skin. Use a towel or a mat to sit on, and be careful when moving around.

• Consult your doctor before using a sauna if you have any medical conditions or concerns, such as high or low blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy, or any other chronic illness.

  
  

Using and Maintaining a 6 Person Sauna 

• Before installation, carefully read the manufacturer's manual and follow their guidelines to ensure proper setup. This may include assembling the sauna, connecting power, and providing adequate ventilation. If unsure, it's best to hire a professional for installation to avoid potential issues.

• When operating the sauna, always set a timer to avoid an accidental long run. Avoid using a 6 person sauna at high temperatures. Instead, gradually increase the temperature and find a comfortable middle point for everyone.  

• To promote good hygiene, always shower before and after using the sauna. Make sure you lay a towel on the sauna bench and encourage others to do the same to avoid sweat stains and bacteria buildup.

• Clean the sauna regularly by wiping down the interior surfaces with a damp cloth and a mild solution of water and vinegar. Avoid using harsh chemicals because they might damage the wooden surfaces.

• Periodically check the heating elements, digital controls, and power connections for any signs of malfunctioning or wear. 

  
  

FAQs

What Size Is a Sauna for 6 People?

Sizes can vary depending on the model, but typically, a six-person sauna can be approximately 6 by 5 feet, standing about 7 feet high. 

Do 6 person Saunas Use a Lot of Energy?

While it's true that bigger saunas require more energy to heat, most 6 person saunas use either infrared technology or a traditional electric heater. These heating elements draw less than 30 amps of power, making them relatively energy efficient. 

What Is the Best Shape for a 6 person Sauna?

The best shape for a 6 person sauna is the rectangular cabin shape. They are more spacious but can easily be tucked into a corner or aligned against a wall for maximum space efficiency.

Using a 6 Person Sauna: Conclusion

With its spacious design, comfortable seating, and state-of-the-art features, a 6 person sauna can truly enhance your wellness journey. From performing invigorating sauna workouts with your fitness buddies to enjoying soothing relaxation sessions with your other half, these saunas can cater to several of your needs. 

If you're looking for a 6 person sauna for your home that offers the best value for money, check out MySaunaWorld’s collection of traditional and infrared saunas. 

For more information, feel free to contact us, and our friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions and help you find the perfect model for your needs.