5 fascinating facts about Finnish saunas
What's the story
If you ever visit Finland, you wouldn't want to miss out on the experience of Finnish saunas. An inseparable part of Finland's culture and lifestyle, Finnish saunas offer a mind-blowing experience of relaxation and tradition. With over two million saunas in the country, they are not merely a place to unwind, but also hold cultural and historical significance. Here are five interesting facts about Finnish saunas.
Sauna statistics
Saunas outnumber cars
In Finland, there are about two million saunas for a population of roughly 5.5 million people. This roughly translates to one sauna for every two to three people, making them more common than cars in the country. Saunas can be found everywhere, including homes, offices, factories, and even government buildings. This prevalence only highlights their significance as a staple of daily life in Finland.
Sauna traditions
A ritualistic experience
The Finnish sauna experience is also rooted in tradition and ritual. It's customary to take a sauna at least once a week, commonly on Saturdays. The process includes alternating between sitting in the hot steam room and cooling off outside or with cold water showers. This practice is said to cleanse both body and mind, promoting relaxation and well-being.
Health insights
Health benefits recognized globally
Sauna bathing has been associated with several health benefits globally. Regular use can enhance cardiovascular health by raising heart rate just like moderate exercise. It also facilitates muscle relaxation, stress relief, and improved circulation. Research has found that regular sauna use can reduce the risk of certain diseases like hypertension.
Social aspect
Social gathering spot
Beyond personal wellness benefits, saunas also work as social gathering spots where friends and family come together to unwind and chat without distractions from technology or daily stressors. In Finland's communal culture, where community bonds are valued highly, these spaces offer an opportunity for meaningful interactions. They foster stronger relationships among people sharing this traditional practice together.
Unique competitions
Sauna World Championships originated here
Finland hosted the World Sauna Championships from 1999 till 2010, but discontinued it due to safety concerns after a tragic incident. Participants faced extreme heat, with temperatures up to 110 degrees Celsius (230 degrees Fahrenheit). Despite its end, the event highlighted Finland's deep connection to sauna culture, showcasing their commitment to heritage and the limits of human endurance in a safe manner.