The Finnish way of sauna

Here in Latvia we often have to dispel myths about pouring water on the stones and sauna heaters. In this post, we will explore two of the most common myths and try to uncover what truly lies behind the authentic Nordic sauna experience.

Myth #1 – the Finnish sauna is a dry sauna

Although it is widely believed that the Finnish sauna is dry, this idea is misleading! In reality, true Finns do not use dry saunas, and this is more than a little confusing.

1️⃣  Löyly – the soul of the sauna

The essence of a Finnish sauna is not dry, but rather moist and rich in sauna steam. It’s no coincidence that the Finns have a special word, löyly, which represents the core of the Nordic sauna experience, creating a pleasant and gentle heat. Without löyly, the sauna would be too harsh and uncomfortable, so without pouring water on the stones, a Finnish sauna simply wouldn’t be a true sauna.

2️⃣  Too dry air is uncomfortable!

Excessively dry air can irritate both the skin and the respiratory system. When there’s no moisture in the air, the heat becomes much harder to bear. A well-maintained Finnish sauna strikes a balance between moisture and heat, allowing the body to fully enjoy the sauna. This is precisely why the Finnish sauna experience is so special – the moisture makes it much more bearable and enjoyable.

3️⃣  Tradition and culture – whisking

The tradition of using whisks in the sauna is still alive today. Moisture from the steam enhances the whisking experience, making it more effective and enjoyable. The steam opens pores, improves circulation, and encourages deeper relaxation throughout the body.

Myth #2 – Water shouldn't be poured on electric heaters

1️⃣  Misinterpretation from commercial saunas

Many public and gym saunas in Latvia can create a misleading impression of the Finnish sauna. These saunas are often too dry, and pouring water on the stones is sometimes not allowed. This is related to sauna etiquette – visitors often pour chlorinated pool water, sports drinks, or beer on the stones, leading to a complete ban on pouring water.

2️⃣  Technological changes

With the advancement of technology, electric sauna heaters are becoming increasingly popular. However, many still associate saunas with wood-burning stoves, where water is freely poured onto the stones. This has led to the misconception that water should only be used on wood-burning stoves. Modern electric heaters are specially designed to be water-safe – the control switches are no longer on the heater itself, and all electronics are hidden in a waterproof compartment beneath the stove. So feel free to pour water – it's a chance to enjoy true löyly!

3️⃣  Design changes

In the past, electric sauna heaters were built with little stone capacity, which limited the ability to create a sufficiently moist sauna atmosphere. Today’s modern electric heaters, such as HUUM or Tulikivi, have larger stone capacities, ensuring a true Finnish sauna experience with a moist and gentle steam. Therefore, choosing the right heater model for your sauna space is essential.

Conclusion:

We hope we’ve managed to dispel the most common myths and revealed to you the true spirit of the Finnish sauna – löyly. So next time you head to the sauna, remember that a real Finnish sauna is moist, steamy, and full of pleasure 😊🔥