Saunas increasingly included in Australian renovations

“We have a little baby so we have a night-time routine. I spend some time with my wife and little one and then I have an hour before I go to sleep. I heat up the sauna and put on a podcast and it’s my downtime.”

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Ahern says Djokovic is typical of clients who are saunaing so often that it makes sense to include one in their renovation plans.

“Most of the clients looking at it are in their late 30s to early 50s and they’re men,” he says. “They love the health benefits and the relaxing feeling it brings.”

While saunas are often promoted for their ability to assist muscle recovery, Brisbane-based GP Dr Joy Hussain says the most common reported benefit is improved mental health. Hussain did her PhD at RMIT on the health effects of sauna bathing and says research into the impacts of the activity has barely scratched the surface.

“Five years ago I conducted a global sauna survey, with most respondents coming from Finland, Australia and the US. There were over 700 respondents and 100 per cent of them reported that they use it for stress relief,” she says. “Saunas come under sports science but mental health is a huge reason why people are doing it. In my survey those who more regularly sauna bathe had higher mental health scores.”

She says the optimum length of time and temperature in the sauna is different for everyone, but three or four sessions a week seems to be the “sweet spot”. Standard temperature settings are between 80C and 100C, although Hussain says those with underlying conditions may need to adjust to a lower setting.

While sauna bathing has been linked to improvements in conditions such as cardiovascular health and managing chronic pain and autoimmune diseases, the data is inconclusive. Hussain says more research is needed, particularly on implications for female reproductive health.

“Most of the sauna research is done on men,” she says.

For those considering installing a hot box at home, prices vary widely, starting at around $2000 for a two-person sauna, including infrared heating units, toughened glass doors and timber seating and lining. While smaller units may be marketed as DIY products, saunas have specific electrical specifications which usually require a licensed electrician.

Given the amount of steam generated, ventilation is a key consideration. Where a freestanding outdoor sauna is preferable, council approvals may be required. For something bespoke with traditional stone heating and room for six to eight people, Ahern says costs can be above $16,000.

“It’s that real sense of luxury and self care,” he says.

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