Russian Banya vs. Infrared vs. Himalayan Salt Sauna: Which Is Right for You?
01/18/18
At Fire and Ice Spa in Dedham, MA, you can book three kinds of private sauna. Each one feels different. Here is a quick guide to help you choose.
Traditional Russian sauna (banya)
The banya is the classic hot room: a wood-lined space heated by a stove with hot stones. Pour water on the stones and a wave of steam fills the room. It is hot and humid, social and energizing.
- Feels like: intense, moist heat that comes in waves
- Good for: groups, sauna lovers, anyone who enjoys a traditional ritual with a venik (birch or oak broom)
- Typical visit: several short rounds of 8–15 minutes with cool-down breaks in between
Infrared sauna
An infrared sauna warms your body directly with infrared panels instead of heating all the air. The room stays cooler, so it feels gentler and easier to stay in longer.
- Feels like: a deep, even warmth without the blast of hot air
- Good for: first-timers, people who find hot rooms hard to breathe in, quiet relaxation
- Typical visit: one session of 30–45 minutes
Dry Himalayan salt sauna
Our dry sauna is lined with blocks of pink Himalayan salt. It is Finnish-style heat: very hot air with low humidity, and the warm glow of the salt walls makes it one of the most relaxing rooms in the spa.
- Feels like: high, dry heat
- Good for: people who like a hot sauna but not heavy steam
- Typical visit: 10–20 minute rounds with breaks
Not sure? Try more than one
Many guests start with infrared and move on to the banya once they know how they handle the heat. Every session at Fire and Ice Spa is private, so you can go at your own pace.
A few simple tips
- Drink water before and after.
- Leave the heat if you feel dizzy or unwell.
- If you are pregnant or have a heart condition or other health concerns, check with your doctor before using a sauna.
