The history of saunas: How and why this ancient practice came about

02. 09. 2024

Sauna bathing is a practice that has been associated with mankind for thousands of years. While today we know it primarily as a tool for relaxation and improving health, its roots go deep into history, when it was used as a means of cleansing the body and spirit. So how did saunas come about and why has it become so popular all over the world?

The origin of saunas

The roots of sauna use can be found in Northern Europe, especially in Finland, where the sauna has a tradition stretching back more than 2000 years. The first saunas were actually simple pits in the ground that were heated to high temperatures. People then sat in these pits and covered them with branches to keep the heat inside. This primitive type of sauna gradually developed into the wooden structures we know today as traditional Finnish saunas.

Originally, sauna bathing had more than just a health dimension – it was deeply rooted in spiritual and social traditions. It was a place where people not only relaxed, but also met and performed important life rituals, such as childbirth or purification before marriage.

Sauna in the world

Although saunas are most associated with Finland, many cultures around the world have their own versions of saunas. For example:

Turkish hammam

In Turkey and other Islamic countries, the practice of hammam, which is a steam bath that is used to purify the body and relax, is very widespread. The hammam has a tradition of more than a thousand years and serves as a social center in many cultures.

Russian Mine

In Russia, traditional sauna is known as “mine”. The mine is usually heated by a stove over which water is poured to create steam. Similar to the Finnish sauna, the ritual of the mine is associated with cleansing and relaxation, but also with the use of birch twigs (so-called wreaths) to massage the body and increase blood circulation.

Japanese Onsen

Japan is famous for its hot springs, which are naturally heated by volcanic activity. These “onsen” have similar health benefits to saunas and are an integral part of Japanese culture.
Why was sauna created?

The original purpose of saunas was not only cleansing, but also practical. In the cold climate of Scandinavia, warming the body was essential for survival, and the sauna offered a safe space for rest and regeneration. In addition, saunas had psychological and social benefits – it was a place where people came together and shared their life stories.

Over time, saunas have become an integral part of lifestyle and health, both in the North and in other parts of the world. Today, thanks to scientific studies, regular sauna use is known to have a number of health benefits, including detoxification, improved blood circulation, reduced stress and a boost to the immune system.