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Sauna – Myths and Truths

For many, sauna bathing is a popular way to relax, an opportunity to escape everyday hustle and bustle, and a ritual for cleansing the body and strengthening health. And although it has been part of our culture for centuries, there are still quite a few myths associated with it.

What is true and what is not entirely

1. The sauna eliminates toxins

We often hear that the sauna “cleanses the body because it promotes the elimination of toxins.” This is true, but it requires clarification. It’s true that during a sauna session we sweat and thus expel some toxins, but most metabolic waste products are still removed by the liver and kidneys. Alternating hot and cold baths – the heat in the sauna and a cold shower afterwards – also detoxify indirectly, as they stimulate blood circulation and lymph flow, boost metabolism, and relax muscle tension. After a sauna, we therefore justifiably feel lighter, purified, and calm.

After the sauna, detoxification can be further supported by drinking water or unsweetened tea, which strengthens the function of the liver and kidneys. Since sweating also removes some beneficial substances – minerals and vitamins – it is recommended to have a light meal with fresh green salad after sauna bathing.

2. Sauna bathing is dangerous

Not entirely true. It’s correct that people with heart or circulatory problems, certain skin conditions, acute inflammations or fevers, as well as pregnant women, should avoid overheating in the sauna. For most people, including the elderly, sauna bathing is safe and very beneficial – if done properly and without overdoing it.

Gradual warming and cooling of the body, followed by rest after each round, help strengthen the body’s natural defense mechanisms. Regular sauna users often notice fewer colds, better sleep, higher libido, and greater inner calm.

3. The longer you stay in the sauna, the more benefits you get

False. Overdoing it in the sauna is not bravery but a mistake. The optimal time is as long as it feels pleasant and you begin to sweat, then cool off with a cold shower and rest. Repeat this 2 to 4 times. The alternating hot-cold effect trains the blood vessels, boosts immunity, and speeds up recovery.

4. After the sauna, it’s best to plunge into ice-cold water

False. Jumping straight into an ice bath after a hot sauna may sound heroic, but it’s not always wise. The sudden temperature shock can put too much strain on the heart and blood vessels, especially in older or less experienced sauna users. The correct way is gradual cooling – spend a few moments outside the sauna first, then take a cold shower from the feet upward toward the heart, and only then, if it feels good, take a dip in cold water.

At Terme Krka saunas, we provide the proper cooling and relaxation ritual: an ice fountain for skin rubbing, jacuzzis and whirlpools, relaxation rooms with comfortable loungers, rocking chairs or water beds, sound therapy with gongs, and outdoor terraces in Dolenjske Toplice and Otočec.

5. A home sauna is a more comfortable choice

Not entirely true. Many people dream of having their own sauna at home, offering more privacy and saving time and travel. However, those who have tried both know that a home sauna is also a significant investment that requires space, energy, preparation, cleaning, and maintenance.

Saunas at Terme Krka, on the other hand, are always ready – professionally maintained, safe, clean, and inviting – and they offer many additional experiences.

You can choose among various types: steam, Finnish, infrared, herbal, aroma, and salt saunas.
In Terme Dolenjske Toplice, there is even an outdoor sauna, allowing you to adjust the intensity and type of sauna experience to your current mood.
Rituals with essential oils, air swirling, sound baths, fragrant peelings, and treatments with honey or salt enhance sweating, nourish the skin, and provide deep relaxation.
In the beautifully designed relaxation areas, water, tea, fruit, and healthy snacks support the sauna experience.
A rich range of additional relaxation options – thermal pools, jacuzzis, massages, and aromatic baths – awaken all your senses.

The warmth that relaxes and heals

After just a few sauna sessions, you can feel your body working differently. Regular sauna bathing improves your mood, strengthens the immune system, stimulates internal organs, enhances sleep quality, beautifies the skin, and accelerates the body’s regeneration.

Vitarium Spa & Beauty

Terme Dolenjske Toplice offers a truly special experience – five different saunas, including an outdoor Finnish sauna with an FKK terrace, a hot Japanese bath for complete relaxation, a massage pool, a private area with an infrared sauna, a whirlpool bath and the option of a couples massage, as well as a Zen room with waterbeds. Throughout the year, guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor thermal pools, and during summer, an open-air thermal swimming area.

Panorama – Hotel Balnea

Two saunas and a relaxation area on the rooftop of Hotel Balnea at Terme Dolenjske Toplice offer plenty of privacy and a beautiful view.

The Panorama area is reserved for hotel guests but can also be booked for private use.

Relaxation by the Sea

In the large sauna world of Talaso Strunjan, the highlights are the salt sauna and the infrared sauna overlooking the Mediterranean park.

Six Saunas, a Thousand Ways to Relax

One of the six saunas at Terme Šmarješke Toplice is the Belokranjska sauna. Other options include an herbal sauna, infrared sauna, Finnish sauna, Roman sauna, steam sauna, a cooling pool, a massage pool, and an ice fountain.