In Finland, relaxation does not come in the form of sand, waves, and palm trees like we might think about in North America. No, in Finland, saunas are where you’ll find the most relaxation.
Steaming hot saunas mean something significant to the Finnish. In a country where the climate is so cold and where there is so much darkness, saunas become almost a necessity to keep sane and happy. Authentic, traditional saunas are set up across spas and sauna houses, in addition to millions of the population owning their own in their homes.
The Finnish sauna is a staple of family life and a representative of the culture. In fact, ‘sauna’ is perhaps the only Finnish word that’s spread to other languages. In Finnish history, countless generations of women have given birth in saunas and even after dying, bodies in old Finnish culture were washed in the sauna. Needless to say, it’s deeply engrained in almost every part of the life cycle for the people of this nation.
You won’t find a hotel anywhere in Finland without a sauna. Every condo development or apartment complex has one and they’re considered so important that even Finnish UN peacekeepers bring saunas with them to other countries as they travel.
One of the main reasons why saunas have made such a deep cultural impact in Finland is unquestionably the health benefits. They help with weight loss, circulation, and heart health. In fact, a study found Finnish men using saunas regularly throughout the week are less likely to die from heart disease than those who don’t go at all.
Saunas are a fine place to meditate and be mindful, away from the smartphones, newspapers, and work. A person can walk in and completely detach themselves from what’s going on in the world, sinking into relaxation without hesitation.
Did you know in Finland, children start going to a sauna as young as 3 months old – it’s true! Alternative to how it’s done in North America, there is no timer to being in a Finnish sauna. They generally remain in the sauna until they feel good and then, when their body tells them to, they leave. It’s as simple as that.
Some also enjoy partaking in the frozen lakes immediately after as a way to open and shock the body awake. Ice swimming can be a nice rush of endorphins, for those brave enough to attempt it.
In North America, saunas are really just starting to hit their stride in helping with healing, assisting in treating chronic pain and respiratory conditions in addition to other illnesses, and in maintaining health. Thankfully, saunas are not going away any time soon. Sauna sales continue to climb worldwide. In Finland, they’re as popular as ever and in countries like the US, Canada, the UK, across Europe, and Russia, they’re continuing to gain traction.
If you’re interested in installing a sauna in your home or commercial space, we’d love to help. Contact Steam Sauna today for more information on how you can get your health and wellness in check with a steam room, infrared sauna, traditional Finnish sauna, or using any of our customized DIY home sauna install kits. Speak with a representative or visit our website.