Steam therapy involves a range of terms and concepts that are crucial to understand whether you're installing a new steam room, using a steam shower, or simply want to get more informed about the different aspects of steam therapy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to steam therapy terminology to help you navigate this soothing and therapeutic world.
Comprehensive Guide to Steam Therapy Terminology
1. Steam Room
Definition: An enclosed space that is designed to be filled with steam for therapeutic and relaxation purposes. Steam rooms are typically heated by a steam generator and are constructed of non-porous materials to maintain high humidity levels.
2. Steam Shower
Definition: A shower system that includes an integrated steam generator, allowing the shower to function both as a regular shower and a steam room. A steam shower is usually enclosed with a vapor-tight door.
3. Steam Generator
Definition: A device that heats water to produce steam. The generator is usually installed outside the steam room, such as under a bench or in a nearby closet, and it pumps steam into the steam room through a steam head.
4. Steam Head
Definition: The outlet in the steam room or steam shower through which steam is delivered. It is typically positioned low on the wall to avoid direct steam contact with the user.
5. Thermostatic Valve
Definition: A valve that mixes hot and cold water to a pre-set temperature to prevent scalding in a steam shower or any other shower system.
6. Control Panel
Definition: Digital or analog controls that allow the user to operate the steam generator. This includes setting the temperature, duration, and sometimes additional features like lighting or aromatherapy.
7. Aromatherapy
Definition: A therapeutic approach that uses aromatic materials, including essential oils, and other aroma compounds for improving psychological or physical well-being. In steam therapy, essential oils can be added to the steam water to create a scented steam that provides additional relaxation and health benefits.
8. Chromotherapy
Definition: Sometimes called color therapy, it is a method of treatment that uses the visible spectrum (colors) of electromagnetic radiation to cure diseases. It is offered in some steam showers and steam rooms as a wellness feature to enhance mood and energy.
9. Hydrotherapy
Definition: The use of water for pain relief and treatment, which encompasses a variety of treatments and approaches that take advantage of the physical properties of water, such as temperature and pressure, for therapeutic purposes.
10. Eucalyptus
Definition: A plant often used in steam therapy for its essential oils that are believed to have beneficial properties, including decongestant qualities and a refreshing scent that helps open airways and clear minds.
11. Humidistat
Definition: A device used to control the humidity level in the steam room, ensuring it stays at a comfortable and therapeutic level.
12. Turkish Bath (Hammam)
Definition: A type of steam bath that includes a body wash and massage, originating from the Middle-East, particularly Turkey. It is known for its focus on water, as opposed to ambient steam.
13. Finnish Sauna
Definition: Although not a steam room, it’s useful to know this term as it is often discussed in conjunction. It’s a dry sauna where dry heat is used to induce sweating, with occasional ladling of water over heated rocks to produce steam.
14. Zero Gravity Seat
Definition: Ergonomically designed seating often used in luxury steam showers to provide maximum relaxation by positioning the body in a way that reduces stress on joints and gives a sensation of weightlessness.
15. Kilowatt Rating
Definition: The power output of a steam generator. Higher kilowatt ratings are used for larger steam rooms or for producing steam more quickly.
This terminology guide provides a solid foundation for understanding the various aspects of steam therapy and its associated equipment. Whether you're discussing options with a contractor, purchasing your own steam therapy setup, or just aiming to get the most out of a spa day, these terms will help you navigate the conversation and make informed decisions.
