"Understanding Finnish Sauna: What’s the Tradition All About?"
what is the Finnish sauna?
The Finnish sauna is a big part of Finnish culture and lifestyle—it's way more than just a hot room. Here's what it's all about:1. The Basics
● A Finnish sauna is a small room or building designed to experience dry or mildly humid heat.● Temperatures usually range from 70°C to 100°C (158°F to 212°F).
● The heat comes from a kiuas (stove) with stones on top. Water is thrown on the hot stones to create steam (löyly), raising humidity and intensifying the sensation of heat.
2. The Ritual
● You shower before entering, then sit (usually naked or with a towel) in the sauna for 10–20 minutes.● After heating up, you cool down—by taking a cold shower, swimming in a lake, or rolling in the snow.
● This heat-cold cycle may be repeated several times.
● Some people beat themselves gently with vihta or vasta—birch branches—to stimulate the skin and circulation.
3. Social & Spiritual
● It’s a place for relaxation, reflection, and social bonding—not about luxury, but simplicity.● In Finland, people sauna with family, friends, even business associates.
● Talking is fine, but silence and respect for others’ peace is also common.
4. Health Benefits
● Reported to improve circulation, relax muscles, relieve stress, and help with detoxification.● Some studies also link regular sauna use with improved cardiovascular health and longevity.
5. It’s Everywhere in Finland
● Over 2 million saunas in a country of 5.5 million people!● Found in homes, offices, factories, and even parliament buildings.
A sauna to be found in (almost) every single household
Yep—that’s absolutely true in Finland. There are over 2 million saunas in a country of just 5.5 million people, which basically means almost every household has access to one. It’s not even seen as a luxury—more like an everyday necessity.You’ll find saunas in:
■ Houses and apartments (even tiny flats often have one)
■ Summer cottages (called mökki, and always with a sauna)
■ Office buildings
■ Sports centers
■ Hotels
■ Even in ferries, fire stations, and parliament
The idea is: sauna is for everyone. Rich or poor, young or old. It’s a place to unwind, clean up, and connect—with yourself or others.
Crazy part? In rural areas, people used to give birth in saunas—clean, warm, and peaceful. That’s how deep it runs in the culture.
When the sauna “sport” is pushed to the extreme
Ah, you're probably thinking of the extreme endurance sauna competitions—and yeah, things have definitely been pushed too far.The World Sauna Championships
● Held annually in Heinola, Finland, from 1999 to 2010.● Contestants had to sit in a sauna at 110°C (230°F) and endure as long as possible.
● Every 30 seconds, water was added to the stove to make it even hotter.
● The goal? Outlast everyone else. No leaning, no leaving, no quitting early.
What Went Wrong
In 2010, tragedy struck:● Russian finalist Vladimir Ladyzhensky died, and
● Finnish champion Timo Kaukonen was badly burned and hospitalized.
● After that, the event was permanently canceled.
The organizers said: “The original idea was to show how tough Finns are, but things went too far.”
Takeaway
True Finnish sauna culture is about well-being, ritual, and balance—not pushing the body to the brink. That extreme contest? A dramatic outlier, not at all representative of how Finns treat the sauna.Types of saunas in Finland
Great question—Finland’s sauna tradition is rich and varied. Here are the main types of saunas you’ll find across the country:1. Smoke Sauna (Savusauna)
■ The oldest and most traditional type.■ No chimney—the smoke from the wood-burning stove fills the room.
■ After heating for hours, the smoke is aired out, leaving behind a soft heat and smoky scent.
■ Dark walls, gentle atmosphere, very beloved in Finland.
■ Often found at summer cottages or special sauna experiences.
2. Wood-burning Sauna
■ Uses a stove with wood logs and a chimney.■ Offers that authentic crackling fire, natural heat, and deeper löyly (steam).
■ Common in rural homes and cottages.
■ Slower to heat but highly favored for the atmosphere.
3. Electric Sauna
■ Heats quickly and is easy to control.■ Most common in city apartments and modern homes.
■ Still gives a good löyly, but purists might say it's “not the same” as wood-fired.
■ Clean, practical, and widespread.
4. Infrared Sauna
■ A modern twist—not part of traditional Finnish culture, but gaining popularity.■ Uses infrared panels to heat the body directly instead of the air.
■ Lower temperature (around 50–60°C), more for therapeutic use.
■ Not considered a “real sauna” by Finnish standards, but still used.
5. Mobile Saunas
■ Buses, trailers, boats—you name it, Finns have put a sauna in it.■ Used at festivals, sports events, or even in the middle of nature.
■ Fun, quirky, and super Finnish.
The smoke sauna
Ah, the smoke sauna (savusauna)—this one’s the crown jewel of traditional Finnish saunas. It’s the original form, and many would say it’s the most sacred and authentic sauna experience you can have.How it Works
● There’s no chimney. A large wood-burning stove is loaded with stones and heated for several hours, usually 4–6.● The room fills with thick smoke during the heating.
● Once hot enough, the fire is extinguished and the smoke is aired out, but the heat remains in the stones.
● You go in after the smoke is cleared, so no worries about sitting in smoke—but you still get the rich, smoky aroma.
What It Feels Like
● The heat is softer, less aggressive than modern saunas.
● The air is still, quiet, and deeply relaxing—almost meditative.
● The scent of the wood smoke, the dark interior, and the gentle löyly (steam) make it a really immersive, earthy experience.
● It’s not just about getting clean—it’s spiritual, grounding, almost ceremonial.
● In olden times, it was considered the purest place in the house. People even gave birth in smoke saunas.
● Needs good ventilation and fire safety knowledge.
● Less common in cities—more likely found at traditional countryside retreats or heritage sauna spots.
It’s like stepping into another time. If you ever get a chance to try one—do it.
■ The stove has a chimney, so unlike the smoke sauna, the smoke goes out while the fire is burning.
■ You light a fire in the stove, and it usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to get hot enough.
■ Once ready, you throw water on the stones to create löyly (steam).
■ The scent of burning wood and the quiet crackling add to the calming atmosphere.
■ It's usually paired with a lake, forest, or cold plunge nearby for cooling off.
■ You control the fire and heat, making it feel more personal and hands-on.
■ Ideal for cottages (mökki) and rural homes—this is the go-to style in Finnish nature.
It’s all about the ritual: chop the wood, light the fire, wait, sweat, cool off, repeat.
If you’re into the idea of connecting with nature or slowing down, this sauna hits the sweet spot.
● Plug it in, set the temperature, and it heats up in 30 to 60 minutes—no wood, no fire, no smoke.
● Still uses water on the stones to produce steam (löyly), just like in traditional saunas.
● Steam can be sharp if you throw a lot of water at once, but you can control it easily.
● Some electric saunas are small and efficient; others can be large and luxurious, with built-in lights, sound systems, even glass walls.
● The air is still, quiet, and deeply relaxing—almost meditative.
● The scent of the wood smoke, the dark interior, and the gentle löyly (steam) make it a really immersive, earthy experience.
Why It's Special
● Often built near a lake or forest, so you can jump into cold water afterward.● It’s not just about getting clean—it’s spiritual, grounding, almost ceremonial.
● In olden times, it was considered the purest place in the house. People even gave birth in smoke saunas.
Downsides?
● Takes time and effort to heat.● Needs good ventilation and fire safety knowledge.
● Less common in cities—more likely found at traditional countryside retreats or heritage sauna spots.
It’s like stepping into another time. If you ever get a chance to try one—do it.
The sauna with a wood fire
The wood-burning sauna (puulämmitteinen sauna) is the classic Finnish favorite—the cozy middle ground between the ancient smoke sauna and the modern electric one. It’s beloved for its natural atmosphere, soothing crackle of fire, and soft, rich steam.How It Works
■ A wood stove (kiuas) is used to heat the sauna stones.■ The stove has a chimney, so unlike the smoke sauna, the smoke goes out while the fire is burning.
■ You light a fire in the stove, and it usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to get hot enough.
■ Once ready, you throw water on the stones to create löyly (steam).
The Experience
■ The heat is moist and even, often gentler than in electric saunas but still intense and deeply relaxing.■ The scent of burning wood and the quiet crackling add to the calming atmosphere.
■ It's usually paired with a lake, forest, or cold plunge nearby for cooling off.
Why It’s Loved
■ Considered more authentic and soulful than electric saunas.■ You control the fire and heat, making it feel more personal and hands-on.
■ Ideal for cottages (mökki) and rural homes—this is the go-to style in Finnish nature.
Compared to Other Types
Type Heat Style Heating Time Atmosphere Smoke Sauna Soft, slow 4–6 hrs Ancient, sacred Wood-burning Natural, rich 1–1.5 hrs Cozy, traditional Electric Sharp, dry 30–60 mins Convenient, clean
It’s all about the ritual: chop the wood, light the fire, wait, sweat, cool off, repeat.| Type | Heat Style | Heating Time | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smoke Sauna | Soft, slow | 4–6 hrs | Ancient, sacred |
| Wood-burning | Natural, rich | 1–1.5 hrs | Cozy, traditional |
| Electric | Sharp, dry | 30–60 mins | Convenient, clean |
If you’re into the idea of connecting with nature or slowing down, this sauna hits the sweet spot.
The electric sauna
The electric sauna is the modern standard in Finland—practical, clean, and super common, especially in urban homes and apartments.How It Works
● Uses an electric stove (sähkökiuas) with heating elements under or around sauna stones.● Plug it in, set the temperature, and it heats up in 30 to 60 minutes—no wood, no fire, no smoke.
● Still uses water on the stones to produce steam (löyly), just like in traditional saunas.
The Experience
● The heat is dry and steady, and usually hotter at the top bench.● Steam can be sharp if you throw a lot of water at once, but you can control it easily.
● Some electric saunas are small and efficient; others can be large and luxurious, with built-in lights, sound systems, even glass walls.
Why People Love It
● Convenience: flip a switch and go.
● Clean:
● Clean:
no ash, no firewood, minimal maintenance.
● Safe for apartment buildings and public spaces.
● Fast:
● Safe for apartment buildings and public spaces.
● Fast:
great for a quick evening sweat after work.
● The heat can feel more dry and “mechanical”, especially in cheaper models.
● Not usually found at mökki (summer cottages)—that’s still wood-fire territory.
So while it may not have the romance of a fire or the mystery of smoke, the electric sauna is all about ease and everyday wellness. Still very Finnish, just with a modern twist.
■ In the past, people would even give birth in saunas due to the warmth and sterility.
■ You’re expected to behave respectfully: no shouting, no roughhousing—just calm presence.
■ A typical session involves multiple rounds of heating and cooling—often with dips in a lake, snow, or a cold shower.
■ In the countryside, the sauna is often at the heart of the home or summer cottage (mökki) experience.
■ It’s not just physical—it’s almost spiritual. Finns describe it as the “soul of the sauna.”
■ Pouring water on the stones is done with intention, not recklessly.
■ Boosts circulation, relaxes muscles, and smells amazing.
■ Often used in midsummer or during festive sauna rituals.
■ Silence, peace, and being present are valued.
■ People often go naked, especially among same-gender groups—it’s totally normal and not sexualized.
■ It’s part of the rhythm of life: relax, cleanse, reset.
■ Saunas are also key on special occasions like:
▪︎ Christmas Eve:
When It’s Not Ideal
● Purists say it lacks the atmosphere and soul of a wood-burning sauna.● The heat can feel more dry and “mechanical”, especially in cheaper models.
● Not usually found at mökki (summer cottages)—that’s still wood-fire territory.
Electric Sauna at Home
In Finland, it’s very normal for a city apartment to have its own small electric sauna, even in buildings just 30–40 m² in size. Others share a communal sauna in the basement—used on a schedule (saunavuoro).So while it may not have the romance of a fire or the mystery of smoke, the electric sauna is all about ease and everyday wellness. Still very Finnish, just with a modern twist.
Finnish sauna traditions
Finnish sauna traditions go way beyond just sitting in a hot room—they’re woven into daily life, seasonal rituals, social customs, and even spirituality. Here's a deep dive into some of the most iconic and meaningful sauna traditions in Finland:1. Sauna as a Sacred Space
■ Traditionally seen as a pure, almost holy place—quiet, clean, respectful.■ In the past, people would even give birth in saunas due to the warmth and sterility.
■ You’re expected to behave respectfully: no shouting, no roughhousing—just calm presence.
2. Sauna & Nature
■ Deeply connected to the natural world.■ A typical session involves multiple rounds of heating and cooling—often with dips in a lake, snow, or a cold shower.
■ In the countryside, the sauna is often at the heart of the home or summer cottage (mökki) experience.
3. Löyly: The Steam Spirit
■ Löyly is the steam created when water is thrown on the hot stones.■ It’s not just physical—it’s almost spiritual. Finns describe it as the “soul of the sauna.”
■ Pouring water on the stones is done with intention, not recklessly.
4. Vihta/Vasta (Birch Whisks)
■ Bundles of fresh birch branches tied together and used to gently whip the skin.■ Boosts circulation, relaxes muscles, and smells amazing.
■ Often used in midsummer or during festive sauna rituals.
5. Social, But Quiet
■ Sauna can be social—friends, family, even co-workers—but there’s an unspoken rule: no small talk unless it feels natural.■ Silence, peace, and being present are valued.
■ People often go naked, especially among same-gender groups—it’s totally normal and not sexualized.
6. Sauna Nights & Weekly Routines
■ Many Finns have a weekly sauna night, like every Saturday or Sunday.■ It’s part of the rhythm of life: relax, cleanse, reset.
■ Saunas are also key on special occasions like:
▪︎ Christmas Eve:
a must-do in most households.
▪︎ Midsummer (Juhannus):
▪︎ Midsummer (Juhannus):
sauna + lake + midnight sun = perfection.
▪︎ Before weddings, funerals, and big life events.
■ In summer, it's common to cool off outside with drinks, snacks, and chill time before going back in.
■ It’s not just about temperature—it’s about contrast, feeling alive, and being present in your body.
▪︎ Before weddings, funerals, and big life events.
7. No Food, But Drinks Are OK
■ You don’t eat in the sauna, but a cold beer, cider, or water between rounds is common.■ In summer, it's common to cool off outside with drinks, snacks, and chill time before going back in.
8. Cooling Down: The Best Part
■ After a hot session, people plunge into icy lakes, roll in snow, or just relax outside.■ It’s not just about temperature—it’s about contrast, feeling alive, and being present in your body.
In the pure Finnish tradition, the sauna is done naked
Exactly—in pure Finnish tradition, the sauna is done naked. It’s the norm, not the exception.Why Naked?
● Comfort and hygiene:Clothes trap heat and sweat, which is uncomfortable and defeats the cleansing purpose.
● Tradition:
● Tradition:
That’s how it’s always been done—simple, natural, and no fuss.
● Equality:
● Equality:
In the sauna, everyone is equal. Titles, status, body image—all of it is left at the door.
● People are very relaxed about it, especially among same-gender groups (e.g., family, friends).
● Mixed-gender saunas often happen in families or private groups, but public saunas may be gender-separated or allow swimsuits/towels depending on the place.
● But in more traditional or rural settings, naked is still the default.
● Common etiquette: sit on a small towel for hygiene and keep things respectful.
Nudity in Finland = No Big Deal
● It’s not sexual or weird—just natural.● People are very relaxed about it, especially among same-gender groups (e.g., family, friends).
● Mixed-gender saunas often happen in families or private groups, but public saunas may be gender-separated or allow swimsuits/towels depending on the place.
Public Saunas Today
● Some public saunas provide optional towel or swimsuit rules, especially for tourists.● But in more traditional or rural settings, naked is still the default.
● Common etiquette: sit on a small towel for hygiene and keep things respectful.
What if You're a Visitor?
● If you're unsure: ask or observe.
● Finns won’t judge you for being modest at first—but they’ll totally respect you for embracing the tradition.
So yes: naked, relaxed, and totally normal.
■ Peat is packed with nutrients, humic acids, and bioactive compounds believed to have detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and skin-rejuvenating effects.
2. The body is then wrapped or sometimes just left in the heat of a sauna or steam room.
3. After 20–30 minutes, it’s washed off, leaving the skin feeling super soft and warm.
■ For skin care: eczema, acne, or just general detox and glow.
■ For relaxation and stress relief—it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy forest blanket.
■ You can also buy peat packs or peat masks to use at home (sometimes with a home sauna).
■ Has a very earthy, primal vibe—like reconnecting with nature on a deeper level.
■ Combine it with a sauna round, cold plunge, and herbal tea, and you’ve got yourself a full Finnish spa ritual.
● Best for: Those who enjoy the strongest heat and feel comfortable with it.
● Why: Hot air rises, so the top benches are the most intense.
● Tip: If you're new to sauna or sensitive to heat, avoid this level at first.
● Best for: Most people prefer sitting here for a comfortable balance of heat.
● Why: It’s not too hot, but you still get the benefits of steam and relaxation.
● Tip: A great choice for extended sauna sessions.
● Best for: Those who prefer a gentler sauna experience or need to cool down during sessions.
● Why: The lower benches receive less heat because the hot air rises.
● Tip: This is ideal for when you want to relax without too much intensity.
● Respect others' space—saunas are a place for calm, and you should avoid crowding the benches.
● Be mindful of the heat—don't rush to throw too much water on the stones if others are sitting higher up (this can make the air hotter).
Bonus Tip: If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can move between levels during your sauna rounds—sit on the higher benches for a while, then cool off on the lower ones.
■ It’s done to stimulate circulation, open pores, and promote relaxation.
■ Birch branches have natural aromatic oils that smell amazing and add to the sauna experience.
● Finns won’t judge you for being modest at first—but they’ll totally respect you for embracing the tradition.
So yes: naked, relaxed, and totally normal.
Peat treatment
Ah, the peat treatment (turvehoito in Finnish)—now we’re getting into one of the more earthy, ancient wellness traditions that sometimes goes hand-in-hand with sauna culture in Finland.What Is Peat Treatment?
■ It’s a natural body treatment using warm peat, a dark, mineral-rich mud formed from decomposed plant material in bogs.■ Peat is packed with nutrients, humic acids, and bioactive compounds believed to have detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and skin-rejuvenating effects.
How It’s Done (Often with Sauna)
1. Warm peat is applied to the skin—full-body, face, or localized areas.2. The body is then wrapped or sometimes just left in the heat of a sauna or steam room.
3. After 20–30 minutes, it’s washed off, leaving the skin feeling super soft and warm.
Why People Use It
■ To relieve muscle and joint pain, especially in combination with sauna heat.■ For skin care: eczema, acne, or just general detox and glow.
■ For relaxation and stress relief—it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy forest blanket.
Where to Try It
■ Offered in many wellness spas, traditional sauna retreats, and some luxury sauna experiences in Finland.■ You can also buy peat packs or peat masks to use at home (sometimes with a home sauna).
The Experience?
■ It’s messy, a bit like playing in mud—but in a good way.■ Has a very earthy, primal vibe—like reconnecting with nature on a deeper level.
■ Combine it with a sauna round, cold plunge, and herbal tea, and you’ve got yourself a full Finnish spa ritual.
Where to sit in a sauna?
When you're in a Finnish sauna, where you sit can impact your experience, as the heat can vary across the room. Here's a guide on where to sit based on heat intensity and your comfort level:1. The Top Bench
● Heat: The hottest spot in the sauna—up to 100°C (212°F).● Best for: Those who enjoy the strongest heat and feel comfortable with it.
● Why: Hot air rises, so the top benches are the most intense.
● Tip: If you're new to sauna or sensitive to heat, avoid this level at first.
2. The Middle Bench
● Heat: A moderate level of heat, usually around 80–90°C (176–194°F).● Best for: Most people prefer sitting here for a comfortable balance of heat.
● Why: It’s not too hot, but you still get the benefits of steam and relaxation.
● Tip: A great choice for extended sauna sessions.
3. The Lower Bench
● Heat: Cooler, around 60–70°C (140–158°F).● Best for: Those who prefer a gentler sauna experience or need to cool down during sessions.
● Why: The lower benches receive less heat because the hot air rises.
● Tip: This is ideal for when you want to relax without too much intensity.
Sauna Etiquette
● Keep your towel or seat covering on the bench where you sit—Finns typically do this for hygiene.● Respect others' space—saunas are a place for calm, and you should avoid crowding the benches.
● Be mindful of the heat—don't rush to throw too much water on the stones if others are sitting higher up (this can make the air hotter).
Bonus Tip: If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can move between levels during your sauna rounds—sit on the higher benches for a while, then cool off on the lower ones.
Vihta – hit body with birch branched in the sauna
The vihta (also known as vasta) is a traditional Finnish practice where you gently hit your body with birch branches in the sauna. It’s not painful or aggressive—it’s therapeutic and relaxing!What is the Vihta?
■ The vihta is a bundle of fresh birch branches tied together with twine, used to gently whip or pat the skin.■ It’s done to stimulate circulation, open pores, and promote relaxation.
■ Birch branches have natural aromatic oils that smell amazing and add to the sauna experience.
Why Use a Vihta?
1. Circulation Boost:The light slapping action stimulates the skin, muscles, and blood flow, giving your body a gentle massage.
2. Skin Benefits:
2. Skin Benefits:
The birch leaves contain flavonoids, antioxidants, and essential oils that can benefit the skin, leaving it soft and refreshed.
3. Relaxation:
3. Relaxation:
The motion of gently beating the skin and the scent of birch can help to relieve stress and improve your overall sauna experience.
4. Cleansing:
4. Cleansing:
The sweat combined with the aroma and motion can provide a cleansing effect.
How to Use It
■ Soak the Vihta: Before using it, you can dip it in water and gently heat it on the sauna stove, which helps release the oils and scents from the birch.
■ Whip Gently:
■ Whip Gently:
Gently tap your body, especially your legs, back, and shoulders. Avoid hitting too hard—you’re aiming for a soothing, invigorating effect, not pain.
■ Let the Vihta Rest:
■ Let the Vihta Rest:
Once you're done, you can hang the vihta on the sauna stove to let the branches dry, or you can store it in water to reuse another time.
■ It’s a personal and relaxing experience, so you can do it alone or with others.
The vihta is one of those things that adds a bit of ritual and earthy relaxation to the sauna. It’s like a mini spa treatment you can enjoy in the comfort of your sauna.
● The act of pouring water over the stones creates instant steam, which increases humidity and intensifies the heat in the sauna.
● It’s often described as the soul of the sauna because it brings the perfect balance of heat and moisture, making the experience feel more relaxing and comforting.
When and Where is it Done?
■ Usually done towards the end of your sauna session when you’re already sweating.■ It’s a personal and relaxing experience, so you can do it alone or with others.
The vihta is one of those things that adds a bit of ritual and earthy relaxation to the sauna. It’s like a mini spa treatment you can enjoy in the comfort of your sauna.
The Löyly – pouring water over hot stones in the sauna
Löyly is a central part of the Finnish sauna experience—the steam or air created when you pour water over the hot stones in the sauna. It's much more than just creating steam—it's an essential aspect of the sauna ritual.What is Löyly?
● Löyly (pronounced "luh-uh-loo") is the pleasant, soft heat and steam that envelops you when you pour water on the hot sauna stones (kiuas).● The act of pouring water over the stones creates instant steam, which increases humidity and intensifies the heat in the sauna.
● It’s often described as the soul of the sauna because it brings the perfect balance of heat and moisture, making the experience feel more relaxing and comforting.
Why is Löyly Important?
1. Comfortable Heat: The humidity adds a softer, more enveloping heat, making the sauna feel more pleasant, rather than dry and intense.
2. Sauna Ritual:
2. Sauna Ritual:
It's an essential part of the Finnish sauna tradition. Finns often take turns adding water to the stones, adjusting the intensity of löyly to suit personal comfort.
3. Health Benefits:
3. Health Benefits:
The increased humidity and heat help to open up pores, promoting detoxification and deep sweating.
4. Relaxation:
4. Relaxation:
The steam is calming, soothing, and almost meditative—it helps clear the mind and body.
How to Create Löyly
1. Heat the Sauna:The sauna needs to be preheated with the stove running for about 30-60 minutes, depending on the type of sauna.
2. Add Water to the Stones:
2. Add Water to the Stones:
Once you’re in the sauna, you pour a small amount of water onto the hot stones. The heat from the stones instantly turns the water into steam.
3. Enjoy the Effect:
3. Enjoy the Effect:
The air gets moister, warmer, and more intense—ideal for sweating, relaxation, and cleansing.
4. Repeat:
4. Repeat:
You can add more water to create more steam, or do it intermittently to adjust the heat levels as desired.
● Take turns if you're with friends or family, allowing everyone to enjoy the löyly.
● Cooling Down:
Löyly Etiquette
● Don’t overdo it—while it's tempting to create a super-steamy atmosphere, too much water can make it uncomfortable for others.● Take turns if you're with friends or family, allowing everyone to enjoy the löyly.
● Cooling Down:
After enjoying a strong löyly, it’s common to cool down by stepping outside, having a cold shower, or taking a plunge into a nearby lake or pool.
Löyly is one of the things that truly sets the Finnish sauna apart. It’s comforting, soothing, and gives you that authentic sauna experience that’s cherished in Finnish culture.
In Finland, after enjoying the sauna's warmth, it's common to cool off with a cold shower, a plunge into a lake, or a roll in the snow during winter. Here’s why it's such a cherished ritual:
Löyly is one of the things that truly sets the Finnish sauna apart. It’s comforting, soothing, and gives you that authentic sauna experience that’s cherished in Finnish culture.
Would you like to take a refreshing bath after sauna?
Taking a refreshing bath after the sauna is one of the most rewarding parts of the experience! It's all about balance—the combination of heat and cold gives your body and mind a chance to feel revitalized and deeply relaxed.In Finland, after enjoying the sauna's warmth, it's common to cool off with a cold shower, a plunge into a lake, or a roll in the snow during winter. Here’s why it's such a cherished ritual:
Why Take a Refreshing Bath After Sauna?
1. Improves Circulation: The sudden change in temperature from hot to cold helps boost circulation and can make you feel more awake and refreshed.
2. Detoxifies and Rejuvenates:
2. Detoxifies and Rejuvenates:
The intense heat of the sauna opens your pores and helps to release toxins through sweat. A cold bath or shower helps close the pores again, leaving you feeling clean and rejuvenated.
3. Balances Your Body Temperature:
3. Balances Your Body Temperature:
After the heat of the sauna, jumping into cold water can cool your body down to a more comfortable level, while also giving you a natural energy boost.
4. Aids in Recovery:
4. Aids in Recovery:
The contrast in temperatures can help relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and aid in recovery, especially after physical activity.
How to Take a Refreshing Bath After Sauna
1. Cold Plunge:If you have access to a nearby lake or a cold plunge pool, take a quick dip for a rush of cold water.
2. Cold Shower:
2. Cold Shower:
For those without a natural water source nearby, a cold shower works just as well to get the benefits of temperature contrast.
3. Snow Rolling (in Winter):
3. Snow Rolling (in Winter):
For the ultimate Finnish experience, after sauna, you might see Finns rolling in the snow—a unique and invigorating way to cool down!
So, yes—the bath after sauna is a must! It's a great way to finish your sauna experience, and it adds to the sense of well-being that the Finnish sauna tradition is all about.
Here’s how you might pull off this epic post-sauna tradition:
Pro Tip: Alternating Heat and Cold
Many Finns repeat the cycle of heat and cold several times during a sauna session. This gives a deeper sense of relaxation and helps to fully experience the therapeutic benefits of sauna bathing.The Feel-Good Factor
After this process of sauna + cold bath, you’ll feel energized, refreshed, and centered—kind of like you’ve had a full-body reset.So, yes—the bath after sauna is a must! It's a great way to finish your sauna experience, and it adds to the sense of well-being that the Finnish sauna tradition is all about.
The after sauna: a small barbecue at -15 degrees?
Ah, a small barbecue at -15°C after a sauna—now that's a true Finnish winter experience! It’s a bit daring, but also incredibly invigorating and memorable. The combination of intense heat from the sauna and the frigid cold of the outdoors is something unique to Finland and other Nordic countries.Here’s how you might pull off this epic post-sauna tradition:
Why Barbecue After Sauna at -15°C?
1. The Contrast:After the sauna, you’ve already warmed up your body, so standing outside in the cold feels like a refreshing challenge. A barbecue adds the element of comfort food while surrounded by the winter chill.
2. The Spirit of Finnish Hygge:
2. The Spirit of Finnish Hygge:
The cold doesn’t bother you as much after the sauna—it’s part of the inviting, cozy atmosphere of Finnish winter. Sitting outside by a barbecue with friends and family, bundled in warm clothes, is a way to enjoy the winter while embracing nature.
3. Unique Flavor:
3. Unique Flavor:
Grilling meat or vegetables in the crisp cold air often gives food a smoky, fresh flavor—it’s an experience for the senses!
The Experience
1. Post-Sauna Feeling: After leaving the sauna, you’re still warm and relaxed, so the cold isn’t as harsh. The combination of being in perfect sauna warmth and then stepping outside into the biting cold adds to the feeling of vitality and connection to nature.
2. Winter Barbecue:
2. Winter Barbecue:
The small barbecue itself can take place in a special outdoor grilling hut (called a "grillikota") or just over a simple fire pit.
■ You might grill sausage (makkara), fish, or traditional Finnish skewers (kebabs), often served with bread, mustard, or pickled vegetables.
■ Hot drinks, like glögi (mulled wine), can complement the experience, warming you from the inside.
3. Winter Wonder:
■ You might grill sausage (makkara), fish, or traditional Finnish skewers (kebabs), often served with bread, mustard, or pickled vegetables.
■ Hot drinks, like glögi (mulled wine), can complement the experience, warming you from the inside.
3. Winter Wonder:
The snowy landscape, the steam from the sauna still rising from your skin, and the scent of food cooking in the cold air all combine to create a magical winter scene.
Tips for a Successful Winter Barbecue After Sauna
■ Dress warmly: Even though you’ve been in the sauna, it’s still freezing outside. Layer up with warm jackets, gloves, and scarves!
■ Keep the barbecue small and cozy:
■ Keep the barbecue small and cozy:
A small grill or even a fire pit works well, and it's easy to add a few more logs to the fire as needed.
■ Comfort food:
■ Comfort food:
Bring along some hearty, easy-to-cook dishes that keep you full and happy after the cold (sausage, fish, roasted vegetables, etc.).
■ Stay hydrated:
■ Stay hydrated:
Have a few hot drinks ready, like coffee, tea, or glögi to balance the coolness with warmth.
Why It’s Worth It
■ Finnish resilience:This ritual reflects a key part of the Finnish spirit—embracing the elements, no matter the weather, and enjoying the moment.
■ Unforgettable experience:
■ Unforgettable experience:
It’s the perfect end to a sauna session—creating a lasting memory that you’ll want to do again and again.
● The sauna session involves sweating to detoxify and relaxing in a warm, steamy environment, which is part of what makes it a wellness ritual.
● Hydrate:
The finnish bath
The Finnish bath typically refers to the sauna experience, as the sauna itself is considered a traditional "bath" in Finland. However, if you're looking for more specific details about the Finnish bath experience, especially as it relates to the broader sauna culture, here’s a breakdown of what that entails:1. The Finnish Sauna: The True "Bath" Experience
● In Finland, the sauna is often considered a type of bath—a space for cleansing both body and mind.● The sauna session involves sweating to detoxify and relaxing in a warm, steamy environment, which is part of what makes it a wellness ritual.
2. Traditional Sauna Ritual (The Finnish Bath)
1. Pre-Sauna Preparation:● Hydrate:
Drink water before entering to avoid dehydration.
● Shower:
● Shower:
A quick rinse is recommended to cleanse the skin and prepare for the heat.
2. In the Sauna:
● The room is heated to a comfortable temperature (usually 80–100°C / 176–212°F).
● You spend time on the benches, allowing your body to sweat and relax. You may pour water on the hot stones (löyly) to increase the steam.
● The vihta (birch whisk) may be used to lightly hit your body for relaxation and stimulation of circulation.
3. Post-Sauna Cool Down:
● After a round in the sauna, many people cool off by taking a cold plunge in a lake, cold shower, or even rolling in the snow (in winter).
● This contrast of heat and cold is essential for rejuvenating the body and boosting circulation.
2. In the Sauna:
● The room is heated to a comfortable temperature (usually 80–100°C / 176–212°F).
● You spend time on the benches, allowing your body to sweat and relax. You may pour water on the hot stones (löyly) to increase the steam.
● The vihta (birch whisk) may be used to lightly hit your body for relaxation and stimulation of circulation.
3. Post-Sauna Cool Down:
● After a round in the sauna, many people cool off by taking a cold plunge in a lake, cold shower, or even rolling in the snow (in winter).
● This contrast of heat and cold is essential for rejuvenating the body and boosting circulation.
3. Finnish Bathing Etiquette
● Naked: The sauna is traditionally enjoyed naked. It’s about comfort and equality—no one’s status is defined by their clothes.
● Quiet and Relaxed:
● Quiet and Relaxed:
Finns value a peaceful, meditative environment in the sauna. It’s a space for relaxation, not for socializing loudly.
● Respect for Others:
● Respect for Others:
If you’re in a public sauna, you should always keep a respectful distance and avoid making the sauna too steamy for others.
4. Additional Finnish Bathing Practices
● Cold Water Dips:After the sauna, dipping into cold water (whether it's a lake, river, or plunge pool) is a common and exhilarating practice to close the pores and invigorate the body.
● Traditional Finnish Spas:
● Traditional Finnish Spas:
Some Finnish spas offer specialized treatments, combining sauna and water therapies, such as jacuzzis, steam rooms, and sauna with peat.
In conclusion, the Finnish bath is about embracing the sauna—it's more than a cleansing ritual; it’s a way of life for many Finns, deeply tied to well-being, tradition, and nature.
5. The Finnish Sauna and the Mind
The Finnish sauna isn’t just about physical cleaning—it’s also a mental cleansing. The intense heat, followed by the cooling down, helps many people release stress, clear their minds, and achieve inner peace.In conclusion, the Finnish bath is about embracing the sauna—it's more than a cleansing ritual; it’s a way of life for many Finns, deeply tied to well-being, tradition, and nature.
