Saunas in Chicago, Illinois
The ancient Finnish tradition of the sauna has been around for nearly 1,000 years, but only recently have its health and relaxation benefits become more widespread in America and other parts of the world.
While many gyms and health clubs offer saunas for members, day spas and bathhouses also offer sauna services, and thanks to Chicago’s long-standing Scandinavian heritage, it’s easier than ever to incorporate this ancient practice into modern life.
What Is a Sauna?
A sauna is a small, usually wooden, room where bathers either sit or lay on wooden benches to allow heat and/or steam to penetrate their skin and muscles. Traditionally, people enjoyed saunas au natural, but these days a towel, robe, or bathing suit is the most common practice. If nothing else, remember your towel (it’s only polite!).
Benefits of Sauna
Saunas have been documented to provide a variety of health and wellness benefits, including:
Overall physical relaxation
Reduced muscular tension
Improved circulation and metabolism
A boosted immune system
Reduced allergy and respiratory symptoms
Clearer, healthier skin
How Long Is a Sauna Session?
Most professionals recommend you slowly build your tolerance to saunas by increasing your time spent in the steam room over multiple sessions. Most people start with short, 10–15 minute sessions in the steam room.
After you know how your body reacts to the sauna, you may opt for multiple 10–15 minute sessions with a cool down period with a cold shower or dip in the pool in between.
How Often Should You Sauna?
It’s safe to enjoy a sauna daily, provided you don’t have any serious health conditions (check with your doctor to make sure). Most people enjoy sauna bathing once a week to a couple times a month.
How Much Does a Sauna Cost?
Many health clubs and spas include sauna access as part of a gym membership or treatment, but Chicago also has saunas that are not part of such a package. You can expect to pay $20–40 for entry to the sauna, though many facilities offer package deals for those who already know they intend to return.
How Do I Find the Best Sauna in Chicago?
If you’re ready to enjoy the benefits of sauna, finding the best sauna for you in Chicago is as easy as browsing the listings above or downloading the Booksy app and selecting “Book Now.”