Sauna

The sauna is more than a wellness routine, it is a social and family tradition. In the sauna, authenticity and conviviality reign. Sharing a Finnish bath with someone is like bonding by discussing topics of conversation in an intimate atmosphere.

There are many reasons to take a sauna, from celebrating a birthday to signing a contract. It is said that business deals are made in the sauna in Finland. Relaxed, one can negotiate better. This is called "sauna diplomacy". Be aware that, in any case, refusing an invitation to the sauna is considered an offence.

The sauna is almost a sacred place for the Finns. Until the Second World War, women gave birth in saunas and the deceased were washed before burial. Diseases were also treated there.

The Finnish adjective "saunanjälkeinen" is used to describe the special state of serenity one experiences when leaving the sauna. The steam bath releases endorphins and purifies the body and mind. A state of bliss that stays with you for several hours after the session.

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The key stages of a Finnish sauna session:

1. Switching on the sauna

Start by lighting the sauna. Traditionally in Finland, the sauna is lit with a wood fire. Today there are many types of saunas, electric and infrared, which do not require a fire. The temperature of the sauna should be between 80 and 100 degrees.

  2. Take off your clothes and use a towel​

The sauna is traditionally practiced naked: use a towel placed between the bench and your body to absorb sweat and protect your skin from the heat of the wood.

  3. Take a shower and dry off well

Before taking a sauna, you should take a shower and dry yourself well.

  4. Entering the sauna, sweating and relaxing in the heat

The moment of relaxation begins: let the warmth soak in. Sweat and relax. You can increase the humidity by throwing water on the stones.

5. Whipping with birch branches
This is how it is done in Finland: birch branches are used to activate the blood circulation. The sauna whip is called "vasta" or "vihta". There is an art to braiding fresh birch branches that has been passed down from generation to generation.

6. Discussing with your sauna companions
As we have explained, the sauna is a time for socializing. You can take advantage of this moment of relaxation to chat with the person with whom you are sharing the experience. But you can also remain silent and enjoy the moment of relaxation.

7. Take a cold shower or jump into the lake
Once the temperature has risen, after 5 to 15 minutes in the sauna, you open the wooden door and run into the frozen lake. If there is no lake, there are other options: cool off with a cold shower, with a bucket of water or if you are in the Omignon, by going down to the river. A great way to feel alive!

8. Repeat the ritual 2-3 times
You can repeat the process as many times as you like. Generally, it is agreed to do at least two sauna sessions separated by a cold shower.

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After the sauna, quench your thirst with a cool drink such as beer
It is advisable not to eat or drink too much alcohol before taking a sauna. On the other hand, the sauna session often makes you hungry. You will enjoy eating and having a refreshing and hydrating drink. The Finns like to have a beer after the sauna, so that the conviviality continues. And of course, drinking a few glasses of water will be very beneficial.