These are the eight steps to sauna bliss shared by our friends at 'Visit Finland.'
Step 1 - Chop Wood or Turn on Your Heater
Birch is the preferred sauna firewood in Finland. There is an art to chopping wood, and the process is a part of the experience. To have a traditional sauna experience you should chop wood as part of the ritual. We recommend this book on the Norwegian art of chopping and keeping wood.
Step 2 - Light the Fire
Birch bark and some dry kindling in a good wood stove will be roaring in moments. Start adding longer logs, and give the sauna 45 minutes to an hour. Check on it a few times to make sure you’re heading in the right direction.
Step 3 - Make a birch whisk from fresh twigs
Cut fresh birch twigs (if in season) and create a sort of bouquet. This will be used during your sauna session. Interestingly, birch has been a part of the first 3 steps! You can also buy a birch whisk here.
Step 4 - Fetch Fresh Water From The Lake
In Finland, nearly every cabin or traditional sauna is near a lake. If you are lucky enough to have a fresh source of water from a lake or river, fetch some in your water bucket now. If you do not have a lake nearby, you can use tap water but it shouldn’t be too ‘hard’. If your water has too many minerals you may want to bring in distilled water or find another source.
Step 5 - Relax and Enjoy
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The wood-fired sauna routine - how to sauna the right way 5
Once some time has passed and your sauna has reached temperature it’s time for your first session in the heat. Pour some water on the rocks and relax.
Step 6 - Clean Your Skin With The Birch Whisk
Lahti Sauna Lehmonkarki By Julia Kivela High Res Mg 4492
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The birch whisk, known as Vihta or Vasta in Finnish is a traditional practice with lots of benefits. The whisk exfoliates, improves circulation, releases pleasant aroma, relieves muscles, and is a natural antiseptic. There are local variations throughout the world, and other branches you can use besides birch.
Step 7 - Clean and Cool Yourself with Fresh Water
Jump in the lake, pour a bucket of water on your head, or take a cold shower. This should be done between every session.
Step 8 - Don’t Hurry
This is so important it deserves its own step. Recovering and relaxing between rounds is critical to your sauna experience and benefits. The longer you stay, the better you will feel.
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