Nordic Sauna
Sauna’s Rich History
As the Finnish proverb states "All humans are equal, but nowhere more so than in a sauna". The sauna is a uniquely capable holding space where all of the elements come together for support (earth, air, fire & water) . Within this space, we come as we are. We come for washing, for good health, and for healing. We come to connect to ourselves, to our community, and to Nature. Finland's sauna culture was added to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2020, making it the first aspect of Finnish culture to be recognized by the organization. This inscription aims to promote the preservation and awareness of sauna traditions, which are integral to Finnish life, encompassing not just physical cleansing but also social connection, well-being, and a sacred sense of nature. The designation recognizes the rituals, practices, knowledge, and spirit of sauna bathing that are passed down through generations in Finland.
Beyond the many health benefits of sauna, this form of ritual bathing has been used by our ancestors as a medicine container where prayers were spoken, healing was received, and deep cleansing and purification took place. This was a sacred space where the elements were honored, nature was revered, and our bodies were cared for from birth until death. Pit style saunas have been used by our ancestors dating all the way back to 7,000 BC in Northern Europe. There are countless folk traditions and remedies that go along with the sauna process, especially those associated with seasonal Nordic celebrations such as Jul and Midsommar. About once per quarter I offer a three hour Nordic Sauna Ritual event where we dive deeply into the spiritual approach and folk traditions connected to the sauna. It’s pure magic!
What is Nordic Sauna?
Nordic Sauna is a process of 15 minutes in the hot sauna (160°F - 200°F) followed by either a cold water plunge or dousing, which is then repeated 2-3 more times depending on tolerance. The entire process takes approximately 75 minutes to complete. Water is added to the hot rocks to create a special steam in Finnish called löyly. Traditionally, the löyly is considered to be the spirit/life force of the sauna itself. The quality of the sauna’s löyly determines the quality of the experience. A vhita/vasta (a sauna whisk/broom) made of birch, oak, linden or eucalyptus leaves is used to gently beat and whisk the body to encourage circulation and blood flow, while offering protection and purification. Sauna is a significant part of everyday Nordic culture. Fun fact: There are more saunas than cars in Finland!
Health Benefits
Improved circulation
The heat from a sauna dilates blood vessels, which improves circulation and oxygenation
The cold water after a sauna makes blood vessels contract, which helps return blood to vital organs
Pain relief and recovery
The heat and cold of a sauna and cold plunge pool can help reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery
The combination of heat and cold is called contrast therapy
Stronger immune system
Nordic saunas can help detoxify the body and improve the immune system
Other benefits
Lower blood pressure
Strengthen the cardiovascular system
Improve mood and reduce stress
Reduce swelling
Improve endurance
Prevent dementia and Alzheimer's
Rates
Individual Sauna Session: $175
(Fee includes a 1.5 hour one on one, guided sauna session with an extra 30 minutes for preparation & integration, 2 hours total time)
Group Sauna Session: Cost ranges from $50-$105 per person depending on group size
Sauna for 2: $105 per person
Sauna for 3: $75 per person
Sauna for 4: $60 per person
Groups of 5-7: $50 per person
(Fee includes a 1.5 hour private group, guided sauna session with an extra 30 minutes for preparation & integration, 2 hours total time)
Community Sauna
I offer regularly scheduled community sauna events as well as sauna rituals on my Meetup page. The communal aspect of sauna is a huge component of the tradition. Come and make some new friends and deepen your connection with your community!
Extra Credit
Finnish people pronounce "sauna" as [ˈsɑu̯nɑ], which sounds like "sow-nah," with the "au" sound similar to the "ow" in "cow" or "how". The word is pronounced with the same emphasis on the "a" and "u" as it is in English, and each letter is sounded out in Finnish.
Try it with me!