Do you know the difference between a sauna and a Turkish bath? Both are very popular hydrothermal treatments in spas and wellness centres, known for their relaxing effects and health benefits. And, although they are sometimes confused, they are two different concepts.
Depending on your needs — relaxation, skin care, respiratory well-being or muscle relief, for example — one or the other may suit you better, or you may even opt for an alternative that combines the best of both: the thermal sauna, which combines the steam and softness of a Turkish bath with the therapeutic effects of sauna heat.
In this article, we explain what each one consists of, what the benefits of Turkish baths and saunas are, and why thermal saunas can be a particularly interesting option for enjoying a more complete wellness experience.
What is a Turkish bath and how does it work?
The Turkish bath is an enclosed, heated room that uses hot steam to create a warm, very humid environment. It works by means of a steam generator that heats water and releases it in the form of dense mist, gradually enveloping the body.
Health benefits of Turkish baths
The benefits of Turkish baths are numerous:
- Promotes deep cleansing of the skin, moisturising it and improving its appearance.
- Helps relieve nasal congestion, sinusitis and coughs, thanks to the hot steam.
- Induces a state of mental relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Stimulates sweating, which contributes to the elimination of toxins.
- Improves blood circulation by dilating the vessels.
- Relieves muscle and joint tension.
What is a sauna and what types are there?
When we talk about saunas, we usually think of the classic Finnish sauna: a wooden cabin with dry heat and very high temperatures. However, not all saunas are the same.
Fundamentally, we can distinguish between two types:
- Traditional sauna. It uses dry heat generated by hot stones. Sweating is intense and rapid, which causes a strong activation of circulation and a subsequent feeling of deep relaxation.
- Thermal sauna. Less well known but very interesting from a therapeutic point of view, it works with natural thermal water vapour at milder temperatures and high humidity. It is halfway between a traditional sauna and a Turkish bath, but with a great added value: the use of mineral-medicinal water, whose properties enhance the effects on the respiratory system, muscles and metabolism.
At Balneario de Fitero, you can enjoy our thermal sauna, a natural stone grotto where the steam comes directly from the thermal spring water. Its temperature, around 45º, and its humidity, relative to 100%, create an ideal environment for respiratory well-being, muscle relaxation and deep disconnection.
Benefits of the sauna for the body
Both traditional saunas and thermal saunas offer very interesting health benefits:
- They help keep the airways moist and relieve the accumulation of secretions, especially in the case of steam saunas.
- They stimulate the body’s internal activity, supporting metabolism and vital functions.
- They produce noticeable muscle relaxation, ideal if you have accumulated tension.
- They generate a sedative and calming effect, which is very beneficial for combating stress.
- They promote the cleansing of toxins from the skin, thanks to sweating and the opening of the pores.
Which is better, a Turkish bath or a sauna?
If you are wondering whether a sauna or Turkish bath is better, the truth is that there is no single answer: it depends on what you need.
If you prefer intense, dry heat, a traditional sauna may be the right choice for you. If you are looking for softness, hydration and respiratory benefits, a Turkish bath is more suitable.
However, if you want the best of both worlds, the thermal sauna is an ideal alternative: it combines steam at a moderate temperature with the therapeutic properties of thermal water.
Main differences between saunas and Turkish baths
Although both treatments share similar objectives, there are clear differences between Turkish baths and saunas:
- Type of heat. Dry in the traditional sauna, humid in the Turkish bath and thermal sauna.
- Temperature. Higher in the sauna, milder in the Turkish bath.
- Body sensation. The sauna is more intense; the Turkish bath is more gradual and enveloping.
- Respiratory benefits. More pronounced in steam environments.
Benefits of the Turkish bath and sauna combined
Without a doubt, the ideal situation is not to have to choose between or alternate between these treatments and to enjoy the benefits of both; something you can achieve if you opt for a thermal sauna such as the one at Balneario de Fitero.
It combines heat, steam and the properties of mineral-medicinal water in a single space, allowing you to avoid sudden changes and enjoy a much more balanced and complete experience.
Thanks to the steam from the spring water and its temperature, you can benefit from:
- A profound effect of physical and mental relaxation.
- A noticeable improvement in breathing.
- Progressive muscle relaxation, without the intensity of extreme dry heat.
- Stimulation of organic functions.
- A pleasant feeling of general well-being.
Enjoy a more complete wellness experience at Balneario Fitero
Now you know: if you are looking for a natural and effective way to take care of your body, disconnect and focus on your wellbeing, at Balneario de Fitero we have the perfect treatment for you: our wonderful thermal sauna!
And if you feel like it, you can enjoy a more complete thermal experience with our packages and programmes. From the Classic getaway, ideal for a first taste of Fitero, to experiences such as Skin Care, or therapeutic programmes such as Pain Relief and Respiratory. All of them combine thermal treatments, access to the spa facilities and thermal sauna sessions. They are ideal!
What are you waiting for? Make your booking at Fitero and make the most of our sauna, surrounded by peaceful, authentic surroundings like no other. We look forward to seeing you!
