Sauna Week

We Finns love our saunas.

This week Finlandia Foundation National and Finns in all corners of the U.S. are celebrating the sauna, or Finnish steam bath, one of the most-loved Finnish cultural traditions.

A sauna is a log or wood-paneled small room or freestanding building with a wood-fired stove, though most modern-day stoves are electric or gas-powered. The stove is topped with palm-sized, smooth stones (Lake Superior stones work great) so as the stove heats up the stones retain the heat like hot coals. Sauna-goers then ladle cool water over the stones, which creates the wonderful steam (loyly).

Saunas are hot, and how hot is a matter of personal preference. Typically saunas are heated to 150-200 degrees Fahrenheit. Finns always sauna in the nude with family and same-sex friends. Yes, groups of naked men (and women) sit in saunas together! In mixed company towels can be used but for the best sauna experience, throw modesty out the window. Being naked is best.

“Sauna” is one of the few Finnish words to be well-known in the English language. If you have a sauna at your home, fire it up this week and invite your friends over. Clear your mind. Breathe in deeply and open your lungs. Let your muscles relax and tension melt away. Sweat. Throw water on the stones and sweat some more.

Everyone should experience this true Finnish cleansing ritual.