10 good reasons to succumb to the hammam and sauna ritual when camping

Do you have a preference between sauna and hammam? Why not both? It's possible if you choose to spend your next holiday at Camping Village Resort & Spa Le Vieux Port in Messanges, in the Landes. Let's discover the beneficial effects of the sauna and hammam.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SAUNA AND HAMMAM?

Do you want to get back into shape, to get healthy again, to forget the stress of everyday life or simply to share a pleasant moment with your partner or girlfriends? There's nothing better than a sauna or hammam session at the 5-star Le Vieux Port campsite!

Before you start, it's important to know the difference between these two relaxation techniques. It's all a question of the humidity in the air! The hammam produces a very humid heat (100% humidity, with a temperature of around 50°C), whereas the sauna produces a so-called "dry" heat (25% humidity, with a temperature of between 70 and 90°C).

THE 5 BENEFITS OF THE SAUNA ON YOUR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

An ancient Finnish tradition, the sauna offers a dry steam bath that is highly appreciated for its relaxing effects and its many benefits for the body. Here are some of them:

1. Purify and drain your body: the intense heat causes a significant sweating which favours the elimination of organic waste.

2. Firming and cleansing the skin: the high temperature of the sauna allows the skin to be deeply purified, moisturised and toned.

3. Relieve joint pain: the heat dilates the blood vessels and brings more oxygen to the joints. After a cold shower, the sauna also activates the blood circulation.

4. Relieve stress: the heat releases endorphins, which are a source of pleasure and well-being (like chocolate!).

5. Boost your immune system: studies have shown that the heat of the sauna promotes the production of white blood cells, the body's defenders.

THE 5 VIRTUES OF THE HAMMAM TO FREE THE BODY AND MIND

A thousand-year-old ritual from the East, the hammam provides intense relaxation that acts on the body and mind. These are some of the recognised beneficial effects of the hammam:

1. Stimulate blood circulation: the hot water steam dilates the blood vessels, thus activating blood circulation. A cold shower after your session will strengthen them.

2. Recovering after physical effort and avoiding aches and pains: the heat helps to relax the muscles and release muscular tension.

3. Cleanse and purify the skin: thanks to the action of the hot steam, the pores of the skin are completely open. This helps to remove dead cells and toxins.

4. Reduce stress: the warm, humid steam combined with essential oils and the silence of the place provides an immediate feeling of calm.

5. Clear the airways: combined with essential oils such as eucalyptus, hot steam relieves sore throats, asthma, colds and allergies.

Did you know? Contrary to popular belief, the sauna and hammam do not make you lose weight! They cause you to lose between 1 and 1.5 litres of water, which is why it is so important to keep well hydrated before and during the session.

SO, ARE YOU READY FOR A SEASIDE SPA BREAK IN THE HEART OF THE LANDES?

The Camping Village Resort & Spa Le Vieux Port also offers a jacuzzi experience with a bubbling bath, massaging jets, anatomical benches, multi-sensory shower, ice fountain, massage and relaxation treatments, modelling and beauty treatments (waxing, foot and hand care, etc.). To find out more, take a look at our page devoted to the campsite's Spa and well-being area!