1. Take a shower first
Though the sauna is technically for bathing, you should take a quick shower before you go in. It’s considerate to your fellow sauna-goers and also makes the heat more bearable.
2. Wear what makes you comfortable
Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to be nude to enjoy the sauna. A bathing suit or even a towel is perfectly acceptable attire. In some public saunas in Finland swimwear is actually required.
3. Cool off often
Don’t be afraid to step out of the sauna when things get too hot for you! Finns often cool off by hopping into the lake or popping outdoors and go back in when they feel up to it.
4. Don’t be scared of the vihta
The vihta – also called vasta in some regions – is a leafy bundle of small branches, usually birch, that Finns use to gently hit themselves in the sauna. It may look intimidating at first, but is great for your circulation and skin, so give it a go!
5. Enjoy the afterglow
To many, the best part of sauna is the euphoric feeling it gives you afterwards. When you’re done, make sure to sit down with a nice, cold drink and soak in the endorphins.
By Johanna Teelahti, ThisisFINLAND Magazine, March 2025
