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Ever traveled to a destination spa resort? It’s a wonderful way to pamper yourself in a serene environment. You laze through days cocooned in a plush robe, gliding between treatment rooms for indulgent facials and massages. Between services, you soak in pools and sweat in saunas. The sad part is knowing that you have to leave.
What if you had a dedicated wellness space in your home? Exercise spaces and spa bathrooms are popular home renovation projects. A growing trend is installing a home sauna to conveniently enjoy the benefits of heat therapy.
I’m considering one. Are you?
Investing in Long-Term Health
People save for retirement because they know a nest egg makes aging easier. But it’s equally important to focus on our diets, mobility, strength and mental acuity. Overall health greatly influences the quality of the golden years.
Maintaining physical health requires an investment of time and money if you choose options like:
- gym memberships
- nutrition advice
- balance/strength training
And, for many of us who hope to age in place, our physical residence might require renovations such as:
- transitioning to a one-story home
- replacing tub/shower combos with walk-ins
- adding security features such as call buttons
A luxurious wellness renovation for seniors to consider is a home sauna. In the same way that financial planning supports a secure future, health investments like a sauna can support a vibrant, independent lifestyle.
Why Saunas Are Gaining Traction for Longevity
My friends purchased a beach cottage in Maine. Before beginning necessary renovations including overhauling the dated kitchen, they installed an outdoor sauna. They find it’s a pleasant way to unwind in the evenings and improves their sleep. Their experience illustrates how sauna use can complement and enhance everyday routines, especially as we grow older.
Prioritizing our health becomes increasingly important as we age. Many of the benefits of sauna use, including improved joint health, reduced stress and a lower dementia risk, are key factors to aging gracefully.
Saunas are not just a luxury. They’re a science-backed tool for healthier aging. But this concept isn’t new. In fact, it’s deeply rooted in other cultures around the world.
The Finns Have the Right Idea
Sauna bathing is an essential element of life in Finland. UNESCO even recognizes it as part of the country’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. According to the Finland Promotion Board, there are an estimated 3 million saunas for its 5.5 million population. They’re located in homes, offices and operated as public gathering spaces.
In an article about Finnish sauna culture, National Geographic noted that 90% of Finns take a sauna at least once a week for health benefits and to unwind. Perhaps we should follow the lead of the country that routinely tops the World Happiness Report list?
Key Health Benefits of Home Sauna Use
I enjoy using the sauna at my gym after a workout or a pickleball game. I emerge sweaty, but feel loose and rejuvenated. Some of the benefits noted by sauna enthusiasts and scientific researchers include:
Improved Circulation
Heat therapy increases blood flow, supporting heart health and muscle recovery.
Joint and Muscle Relief
Ideal for managing arthritis, stiffness and post-workout soreness.
Better Sleep Quality
Sauna use can promote deeper, more restorative sleep by calming the nervous system.
Stress Reduction and Mental Wellness
The quiet, meditative environment of a sauna helps lower cortisol and promotes mindfulness.
Clearly, sauna use is more than just relaxing. It’s a powerful addition to a holistic wellness routine.
Before beginning a sauna practice, seek the advice of your physician. Once you’ve confirmed it’s a safe option, it’s worth thinking about how your living space might support this healthy habit.
Think of Your Home as a Wellness Sanctuary
I look at my house differently now that I’m over 60. I’m happy I have a ranch. Although stairs are an easy daily fitness exercise, they can be an impediment if balance and joint issues develop. And my home has wide hallways that would easily accommodate a mobility device if needed.
As I consider renovations, I’m constantly thinking of ways to create a serene, supportive environment since I’m spending more time at home now that I’m retired. Installing a home sauna is an option I’m considering. There’s one at my gym and I enjoy using it post-workout, but it’s not convenient to use on a daily basis.
Interested? The next step is learning how to begin the process of installing one in your own space.
Considering a Home Sauna? How to Begin
First, as I mentioned earlier, consult with your physician. Sauna use is not recommended for individuals with several health conditions.
Second, decide whether you want an indoor or outdoor sauna. An indoor one requires a significant construction investment but is very convenient. It’s less expensive to install a freestanding unit outside, but you’ll want it close to the house for easy access.
Next, you’ll want to compare different heating technologies to find what best suits your lifestyle. Home saunas use different methods including electricity, wood and infrared heating. Each has its pros and cons. A sauna pro should be able to assist you in making the right decision for your needs and budget.
I’ve casually eyed the cedar units in my pool supply store for years. But the units seem flimsy. I feel like my pool guy carries them just to keep something in the showroom when summer ends. Fortunately, new options from established manufacturers are entering the market.
A Name You Can Trust
KOHLER, one of the premier manufacturers of quality plumbing fixtures, is launching home saunas in the fall of 2025. The indoor and outdoor models join the company’s suite of at-home wellness solutions including the KOHLER x Remedy Place Ice Bath, the KOHLER Anthem+ digital showering system (featuring an ice shower mode expansion) and the KOHLER Invigoration Series Steam. I don’t know if I’m ready to go full Nordic and try hot/cold contrast therapy, but KOHLER’s modern design and 150 years of brand trust make the saunas very appealing.
Of course, the luxury of a home sauna also comes with a price tag to match. KOHLER’s base indoor model, prior to any construction/installation cost, is $13,000.
If I decide to pursue one, I might have to skip a few spa vacations. But having daily access to such a wellness tool might be worth the tradeoff, especially if it helps me age with improved health.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
What wellness activities do you pursue regularly? Do you have a health condition you think heat therapy would help? Would you consider installing a home sauna?
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