 For
Finns, sauna is a way of life - from early times sauna was the key
room in any Finnish household - once used for cleaning, curing
illness and even delivering babies, this form of bathing has become
best known for relaxing the body and mind and for the ultimate sense
of well-being which it imparts.
The concept is simple - a timber lined room is heated to a
temperature of 75 to 80°C; where normally such heat would be
uncomfortable, in sauna the wood absorbs the moisture and the dry
atmosphere is pleasant for short periods, promoting heavy
perspiration, opening the pores and deep cleansing the skin. Time
spent in the heat is interspersed with an invigorating cold shower
or plunge and enhanced by loyly - the Finnish term for sprinkling a
little water on the hot rock, raising the humidity and creating a
wave of heat which heightens the sense of relaxation and
contentment. A period of rest following bathing consolidates the
rewards of the sauna and is a social time to enjoy with family or
friends.
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