Outdoor saunas have been in existence since the prehistoric era. Nomadic tribes found that they could easily transfer materials to heat a tent or bath. This led to the creation of what is known as the sweat lodge in North America. It took slightly different forms in other countries. Ancient Japan saw the creation of the Onsen, while other cultures used an early form of the Turkish Hamam. These primeval outdoor saunas were often used in religious rituals or ceremonies, but they were also employed to achieve many of the same things as the modern sauna.

It is possible for people to have saunas in their homes. In fact, many personal saunas are constructed indoors. However, there are elements that make the experience of using outdoor saunas truly unique. When one steps out of the cabin or cottage (two modern forms of the old lodges), the rush of the cool night air is invigorating. Many past cultures believed that the sauna purified the body, mind, and spirit, and brought one closer to Nature. Therefore, it is only appropriate that when leaving the sauna, Nature should be the first thing that one encounters.

Building Outdoor Saunas

The act of constructing a sauna outside can be more time consuming and more expensive than adding one onto the bath or shower. Building materials must be weather resistant. This means that only high quality woods should be used. While it is not required, outdoor saunas tend to be larger than indoor ones. This will only add to the time and money involved in the process.

Sauna kits can help people get things started. Also, many sauna manufacturers are usually willing to discuss construction methods and give helpful hints to anyone who is building on his or her own. There are also sauna societies throughout the world dedicated to helping people design, assemble, and just plain enjoy outdoor saunas.