In Finland, the sauna is more than just a place to relax—it’s a way of life. With over 2 million saunas in a country of 5.5 million people, it plays a key role in health, social life, and well-being.

1. A Finnish Tradition

Saunas have been used in Finland for centuries, once serving as places for healing, childbirth, and purification. Today, they remain essential, whether in homes, offices, or lakeside cottages. A typical Finnish sauna session includes heating the room to 80–100°C (176–212°F), sweating, cooling down in water or snow, and repeating the cycle.

2. Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing

Regular sauna use is linked to numerous health benefits:

  • Heart Health – Lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Detoxification – Promotes sweating, flushing out toxins.
  • Mental Well-Being – Triggers endorphin release, reducing stress and tension.
  • Stronger Immunity – Helps the body fight colds and respiratory infections.
  • Muscle Recovery – Eases discomfort and improves flexibility.

A Finnish study found that individuals who sauna four–7 times per week had a 40% lower risk of premature death.

3. Types of Finnish Saunas

Finns enjoy different types of saunas, each offering a unique experience:

  • Wood-Burning Sauna – Found in countryside cabins, offering natural warmth.
  • Smoke Sauna (Savusauna) – Traditional, with a deep smoky aroma.
  • Electric Sauna – Common in homes, quick to heat.
  • Ice Sauna – A winter-only experience made from snow and ice.

4. How to Sauna Like a Finn

To get the full experience:

  1. Go in bare or with a towel – It’s about comfort, not modesty.
  2. Pour water on the stones – This creates löyly, the essential sauna steam.
  3. Cool off in water or snow – An important part of the ritual.
  4. Stay hydrated – Drink water or traditional Finnish birch sap juice.
  5. Enjoy the silence – Saunas are for relaxation, not small talk.

The Ultimate Wellness Ritual

For Finns, the sauna is a sanctuary—a place to relax, detox, and reset. With proven benefits for heart health, immunity, and mental well-being, it’s no surprise that sauna culture is linked to longevity.

So, if you ever visit Finland, don’t miss the chance to experience this life-changing tradition—because in Finland, a sauna a day keeps the doctor away!