Saunas are reappearing in everyday life as spaces for pause and reconnection, integrating ancient practices with new forms of care for the body and mind
Submitted at Apr 8, 2026, 3:00 PM
(Gabriela Daltro/Divulgação)
Saunas have ceased to be seen only as occasional spaces for relaxation and have come to occupy a permanent place in well-being routines. What was once associated with clubs or spas now appears integrated into residential projects and a broader logic of self-care.
(Clay Banks/Unsplash/Divulgação)
This shift does not arise by chance. In a scenario marked by an excess of stimuli and a fast pace, practices that invite slowing down gain new meaning. As a practice that favors introspection, sauna therapy speaks directly to a contemporary search for balance.
The resurgence of saunas reveals a change in behavior, especially among Generation Z. Younger people have been reframing the concept of well-being, prioritizing experiences that involve presence, mental health, and self-care.
In addition, there is an aesthetic dimension (the famous "aesthetic") that is essential for this generation. Sauna projects with minimalist design, natural materials and integration with outdoor areas reinforce the sensory experience, where the project is no longer merely functional and goes on to compose a broader narrative.
(Lukas Kubica/Unsplash/Divulgação)
The use of saunas involves different layers of benefits, which manifest in both the body and the mind. Heat, the controlled project, and the length of time spent inside create specific conditions that favor relaxation and regeneration.
The heat of saunas contributes to muscle relaxation, helping to relieve tensions accumulated throughout the day. This effect is especially noticeable after physical activities or long periods of effort.
Exposure to heat causes blood vessels to dilate, a natural response of the body, and increases blood circulation. This stimulus promotes tissue oxygenation and contributes to muscle recovery. In addition, it is the main factor responsible for the sensation of bodily lightness.
Saunas also influence the mental state, creating a project conducive to slowing down. The absence of external stimuli and the constant heat favor a state of deep relaxation.
This context can contribute to stress reduction and to moments of introspection. In this way, time inside the sauna becomes a conscious pause, which aligns with current mindfulness practices.
In addition, intense sweating helps eliminate impurities and is often associated with a sensation of cleanliness and renewal.
Rosa Marimon- Espaço Bio, Sauna, SPA e banheiros, área adjacente à piscina repleta de memórias de celebrações animadas. (Lio Simas/Divulgação)
Despite its numerous benefits, the practice requires some care to ensure a safe experience. The main ones are:
The time spent inside saunas should be controlled, generally between 10 and 20 minutes per session. Longer stays can overburden the body, especially for those who are beginning. Taking breaks between sessions and observing the body's response helps avoid discomfort.
Hydration is also one of the most important points in sauna therapy. Since the body loses fluids through sweat, it is essential to drink water before and after using saunas. This care helps maintain the body's balance and prevents symptoms such as dizziness or fatigue.
People with specific conditions, such as cardiovascular problems or dysregulated blood pressure, should be especially careful when using saunas. In these cases, professional guidance is essential.
Sauna therapy can be integrated with other practices, such as cold baths, moments of rest or self-care routines. This combination enhances the effects and broadens the experience.
