Choosing the Right Sauna to Boost Your Immune System in Fall

Many Canadians start thinking about ways to stay healthy through the changing season — and one of the best ways to do that is with a home sauna. Autumn is beautiful, but it’s also the time when our immune systems need a little extra support.

One of the most enjoyable ways to strengthen your body’s natural defenses is by adding a sauna routine to your wellness plan. The steady heat helps your body relax, detoxify, and prepare for colder weather.

When choosing a sauna to support your immune system this fall, it’s important to think about what kind of warmth feels best for you.

• Traditional saunas deliver that familiar, steamy heat — usually around 175°F to 195°F (80°C–90°C) for about 15–20 minutes — creating an invigorating sweat that leaves you refreshed.
  
  

• Infrared saunas, on the other hand, work at gentler temperatures — roughly 120°F to 140°F (49°C–60°C) — but use deep-penetrating infrared light to warm your body from the inside out.

Both types help raise your body temperature, encourage healthy sweating, and activate immune responses that can help you fend off seasonal colds. The key is to find which one suits your comfort level, lifestyle, and home space — and that’s exactly what we’ll explore in this guide.

Why Fall Is the Best Time to Invest in a Sauna

There’s something about stepping into a warm, soothing sauna while it’s chilly outside that feels magical — but it’s more than just comfort. During fall, your immune system often faces extra challenges:

• Cooler temperatures make viruses spread more easily
  
  

• Dry indoor air can weaken nasal passages, your body’s first defense line
  
  

• Stress and lack of sunlight can lower your mood and energy
  
  

A sauna helps counteract all of that. Here’s how:

1. Supports Your Immune System

When your body is exposed to the high heat of a sauna, it mimics a fever — triggering your immune system to produce more white blood cells that help fight infections.

2. Improves Circulation

Saunas promote better blood flow, helping nutrients and oxygen reach your tissues more efficiently. That improved circulation supports overall vitality and faster recovery from fatigue.

3. Reduces Stress

Fall can be a busy season — back to school, work routines, and early holiday planning. Sauna sessions reduce cortisol levels (your body’s stress hormone) and increase endorphins, leaving you feeling calm and refreshed.

4. Promotes Detoxification

Sweating in a sauna helps flush out toxins naturally, which keeps your skin clear and supports liver and kidney function — essential for immune health.

5. Combats Seasonal Fatigue

Regular sauna use can improve sleep quality and energy levels, helping you stay active even as daylight shortens.

The Health Connection: How Saunas Strengthen Immunity

Scientific studies continue to show that sauna bathing can have measurable health benefits. For example, research from Finland — where saunas are part of daily life — has linked regular sauna use to:

• Fewer colds and respiratory infections
  
  

• Lower blood pressure and improved heart function
  
  

• Reduced inflammation in the body
  
  

When your body heats up during a sauna session, it experiences something called “hyperthermic conditioning.” This gentle stress response strengthens the immune system, boosts heat shock proteins (which help repair cells), and increases your body’s resilience over time.

In other words, the more consistent you are, the more your body adapts — leading to stronger immunity and improved overall wellness.

Types of Saunas: Which One Is Right for You?

Not all saunas are created equal. The best one for you depends on your space, lifestyle, and wellness goals. Let’s break down the main types available in Canada today — including which are best for boosting immunity this fall.

1. Traditional Finnish Saunas

Best for: A classic, high-heat experience with deep sweating and detoxification.

Traditional Finnish saunas use wood-burning or electric heaters to raise the temperature between 70°C and 100°C (158°F–212°F). Water is poured over heated stones to create steam, which increases humidity and intensifies the sensation of heat.

Benefits:

• Deep, full-body sweating for detox and relaxation
  
  

• Promotes cardiovascular health and immune defense
  
  

• Invigorating and mood-boosting experience
  
  

Considerations:

• Requires proper ventilation
  
  

• Takes longer to heat up
  
  

• Higher operating temperature may not be ideal for everyone
  
  

If you love the authentic “cabin in the woods” vibe, this is your go-to option — especially for those chilly Canadian nights.

Learn more about infrared vs traditional saunas and which fits your home best.

2. Infrared Saunas

Best for: Gentle, energy-efficient, and deeply penetrating heat therapy.

Infrared saunas use light waves to warm your body directly rather than heating the air around you. This allows for lower temperatures (40°C–60°C / 104°F–140°F) while still producing a powerful sweat.

Benefits:

• More comfortable for longer sessions
  
  

• Great for people sensitive to high heat
  
  

• Enhances circulation and muscle recovery
  
  

• Excellent for regular immune-boosting use
  
  

Considerations:

• Doesn’t offer the traditional steam effect
  
  

• Some people prefer the “hot air” feel of a Finnish sauna
  
  

For those focused on wellness and consistent daily use, infrared saunas are a great choice. They’re efficient, easy to install, and deliver powerful immune and relaxation benefits without overwhelming heat.

3. Steam Saunas (Steam Rooms)

Best for: Skin health, respiratory relief, and deep detoxification.

Steam saunas use boiling water to create 100% humidity, surrounding you with warm, moist air at around 40°C–50°C (104°F–122°F).

Benefits:

• Opens airways — perfect for fall congestion and colds
  
  

• Deeply hydrates skin
  
  

• Promotes intense detox and relaxation
  
  

Considerations:

• Needs moisture-resistant materials
  
  

• May require more maintenance
  
  

• Not ideal for small, poorly ventilated spaces
  
  

A steam sauna is perfect if you want to combine relaxation with respiratory health — especially if you often deal with colds or allergies in autumn.

4. Outdoor Barrel Saunas

Best for: Backyard wellness retreats and all-season relaxation.

Outdoor saunas are growing in popularity across Canada. Barrel saunas, in particular, are designed to handle extreme weather — from snowy winters to rainy fall evenings.

Benefits:

• Stunning aesthetic for your backyard or lakeside cabin
  
  

• Durable and weather-resistant
  
  

• Perfect for cooling off outdoors after a hot session
  
  

Considerations:

• Requires outdoor space and setup
  
  

• Installation may need electrical work
  
  

If you love nature and want to make the most of Canada’s crisp fall evenings, an outdoor sauna is an unbeatable choice.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing Your Sauna

When investing in a sauna for your home, keep these features in mind to get the best fit for your wellness goals and living space.

1. Size & Capacity
   
   

• Do you plan to enjoy it solo or with family? Saunas come in 1-person, 2-person, or larger sizes.
  
  

• A 2- to 4-person unit is most popular for families or couples who want to relax together.
  
  

2. Heating Technology
   
   

• Traditional heaters (electric or wood-burning): Ideal for high heat and steam.
  
  

• Infrared panels: Great for consistent, energy-efficient warmth.
  
  

3. Installation Location
   
   

• Indoor saunas: Perfect for basements, bathrooms, or home gyms.
  
  

• Outdoor saunas: Excellent for cottages, decks, or garden areas.
  
  

4. Materials & Design
   
   

• Choose durable, non-toxic wood like cedar, hemlock, or spruce.
  
  

• Cedar is especially popular for its natural resistance to moisture and pleasant aroma.
  
  

5. Maintenance & Power Usage
   
   

• Infrared saunas require less maintenance and lower power consumption.
  
  

• Traditional ones may need more upkeep but deliver a classic experience.
  
  

Sauna Tips to Boost Immunity This Fall

Once you’ve chosen your ideal sauna, maximize its immune-boosting benefits with these simple tips:

1. Stay Consistent – Aim for 3–4 sauna sessions per week, especially during fall.
   
   

2. Hydrate Before and After – Drink water or an electrolyte drink before and after each session.
   
   

3. Start Slow – Begin with 10–15 minutes and work your way up as your body adjusts.
   
   

4. Combine Sauna Use with Cold Exposure – End your session with a cool shower or brief step outside.
   
   

5. Nourish Your Body Afterward – Have a light snack or herbal tea rich in antioxidants.
   
   

6. Keep It Hygienic – Wipe down benches and surfaces after each use.
   
   

Sauna and Stress: Your Autumn Reset

Fall is often when stress levels creep up again — school, work, and early darkness can all weigh on your mood. Saunas provide a peaceful escape where you can disconnect, breathe deeply, and reset your mind.

Regular sessions stimulate endorphins — the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones — and help balance your nervous system. That’s why many Canadians use sauna time as a daily ritual of mindfulness and relaxation.

Discover how hot tubs and saunas work together for full-body wellness.

Pairing your sauna with calming activities — like listening to gentle music, journaling, or meditating — can multiply the benefits.

Creating a Wellness Sanctuary at Home

Your sauna can become the heart of your home’s wellness space. Combine it with:

• A home gym for full-body health
  
  

• A hot tub or pool for relaxation and hydrotherapy
  
  

• Ambient lighting and aromatherapy for a spa-like atmosphere
  
  

Adding simple touches — like warm towels, natural scents, and soft music — turns each session into a mini retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I use a sauna to boost my immune system?
For most people, three to four sessions per week is ideal. Each session can last about 15–20 minutes in a traditional sauna or 20–30 minutes in an infrared sauna. Consistency is key — regular sauna use helps train your body’s natural defense mechanisms.

Can saunas help prevent colds or the flu?
While saunas can’t guarantee you won’t get sick, they support your immune system by increasing white blood cell production, improving circulation, and reducing stress — all of which make your body better equipped to fight off seasonal illnesses.

Which sauna type is better for beginners?
If you’re new to sauna use, infrared saunas are usually the best starting point. They operate at lower temperatures (120–140°F), making them more comfortable while still offering deep, penetrating heat that supports detoxification and relaxation.

Are home saunas energy-efficient?
Yes! Many modern home saunas, including those offered by Krevco, are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Infrared models, in particular, consume less electricity than traditional ones while still delivering excellent therapeutic results.

What’s the best time of day to use a sauna?
It depends on your routine. Using a sauna in the morning can help boost energy and circulation, while an evening session can promote relaxation and better sleep. Either way, it’s important to hydrate well before and after.

Bringing Wellness Home This Fall

As autumn settles in, investing in a home sauna is one of the most rewarding things you can do for your health. It’s not just about staying warm — it’s about creating balance, supporting your immune system, and finding calm in the rhythm of daily life.

A sauna is more than a luxury; it’s a long-term investment in your well-being. It offers a space to unwind, recharge, and take care of your body — especially when colder weather sets in. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, recovery, or resilience, the right sauna can help you achieve it all.

Final Thoughts

Your wellness journey starts at home — and a sauna can be the heart of it. From boosting immunity to easing stress and improving sleep, it’s a simple yet powerful way to elevate your everyday life this fall.

At Krevco Lifestyles Inc., we’re passionate about helping Canadians create healthier, happier homes. Our collection of traditional, infrared, and outdoor saunas is built for comfort, quality, and the unique demands of Canadian living.

Whether you’re building your dream home spa or adding a cozy escape to your backyard, Krevco has everything you need to bring wellness closer to home.

Ready to Elevate Your Fall Wellness Routine?

As the temperatures drop, there’s no better time to invest in your health and comfort at home. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system with a relaxing sauna, unwind in a hot tub after a long day, or stay active with home fitness equipment, Krevco Lifestyles Inc. has everything you need to make wellness a part of your everyday life.

Visit Krevco Lifestyles Inc. to explore our full range of home saunas, hot tubs, pools, and fitness products — all designed to bring comfort, relaxation, and quality into your home.

Discover the Krevco difference — where quality meets comfort, and wellness becomes a lifestyle.
Your sanctuary for better living starts right where you are.
Let Krevco Lifestyles Inc. help you create it.