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The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Sauna

The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Sauna

av Minna OLS Community Manager -
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Source: Pixabay


The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Sauna

Saunas have been cherished for their rejuvenating and relaxing benefits for centuries. Whether you're a seasoned sauna enthusiast or a newcomer looking to dive into the world of Finnish löyly therapy, I've got you covered with this comprehensive guide on how to make the most of your sauna experience.


1. Preparing Your Sauna

Before you embark on your sauna adventure, make sure you set the stage for a soothing session.

Fire up your sauna 45 minutes prior to your session. This allows the rocks and walls to heat up, ensuring optimal conditions. Ensure your thermostat reads between 60-100°C. An ideal starting point is around 80°C. If you have a wood-burning stove, prepare plenty of wood and fill water buckets beforehand. This is to avoid interruptions during your session. Prepare or defrost your “vasta”, the bunch of birch leaves and branches that you use on yourself! 

 Source: Pixaba


2. Stepping into the Sauna

Now that your sauna is ready, it's time to step inside and experience the magic

Begin with a short interval, not exceeding 10 minutes for your first time. Gradually extend your sessions, but never exceed 30 minutes. If you ever feel dizzy, lightheaded, nauseous, or develop a headache, exit the sauna immediately. Always sit on a towel on the bench to avoid discomfort from the heat, also watch out for hot walls, when leaning backwards.  You can have your water bottle with you in the steam room.

3. Cooling Down and Refreshing

After your sauna session, it's essential to cool down and refresh your body. Embrace the Finnish tradition of cooling off in a cold lake or taking a cold shower. Try avanto, ice hole, if you dare! The aim is to bring your body temperature back to normal while enhancing blood flow. You can also just step into cooler air to gradually lower your temperature slowly.


4. Mastering the Sauna Rounds

To truly maximize your sauna experience, follow these rounds

  • Round One: Spend 10-15 minutes in dry heat. This evens out your body temperature gradually and gently introduces you to the dry sauna environment.

  • Round Two: Afterward, cool off by either enjoying the snow, taking a cold shower, or even daring to dip into natural waters, regardless of the season.

  • Round Three: This round involves creating steam by pouring water over heated rocks, known as "löyly." While initially uncomfortable and challenging to breathe in, steam improves core heating. Enhance the experience by adding essential oils to the water and use your “vasta”! Beat yourself as much as you want, and help your sauna companion as well! This is the best part! However, there is no need to worry if you don't have a vasta, just enjoy the sauna heat as it comes. 

  • Repeat these rounds as many times as you prefer, even up to 6 times, for an extensive experience that could last for hours.


5. Aftercare and Nourishment
As your sauna journey comes to an end, pamper yourself with proper aftercare: Avoid harsh scrubbing, if possible allow your body to dry naturally or pat lightly with a towel. Relax and savor a cold beverage. Allow your body to cool naturally and let the sense of relaxation sink in. Make sure to cool down fully before dressing up. Premature dressing might lead to sweating.

6. Rehydration and nourishment

Remember to rehydrate and refuel your body post-sauna. Drink plenty of water to compensate for the fluids lost through sweating. Enjoy a salty snack to replenish lost sodium.


7. Explore Sauna Varieties

Dive into the diverse world of saunas. Beyond the traditional sauna, there are options like smoke saunas, infrared saunas, and herbal saunas. You can even incorporate activities like meditation and yoga if space allows, tailoring the experience to your preferences.


Last note

A sauna experience can be both invigorating and relaxing, providing a much-needed escape from the demands of modern life. With these tips in mind, you're ready to embark on a journey of tranquility and wellness, unlocking the countless benefits that a sauna offers. So go ahead, step into the world of sauna culture, and bask in its warmth, both physically and mentally.


Minna, OLS Community Manager – Finnish


Source: Pixabay