The Finns have been drawn to the sauna for more than 1000 years. Once or twice a week they sweat in one of their 1.4 million wooden huts. Originally, the sauna had the function of cleansing the body, but now the focus is on relaxation and well-being. Sauna enthusiasts swear by sweating! And far beyond Finland's borders.

The only thing that differs from country to country is whether saunas are taken with or without clothing. In German-speaking countries, Scandinavia, the Baltic countries, the Benelux countries, northern Italy, Slovenia, Croatia and Russia, people prefer to sauna without clothing. In most countries, the sexes are separated, especially where saunas are naked. Germany is an exception here. The use of essential oils in the infusion, which is common in this country, and the distribution of steam by blowing with a towel is also frowned upon in Finland.

Dos and don'ts in the sauna

• Take your time so that the sauna is really relaxing (at least two hours)
• Take a shower before going to the sauna and dry yourself thoroughly - damp skin does not sweat well. Place a towel on the wooden surface before you sit down
• Stay in the sauna for between 8 and 15 minutes. In the cool-down phase, go out into the fresh air for a short time, take a deep breath and take a short cold shower after the air bath - if you like, take a dip in the plunge pool, river or lake afterwards
• Rest for at least 15 minutes
• Three sessions are ideal
• Find your own rhythm and trust your body feeling, the times given are for guidance only
• Drink enough between sauna sessions (preferably water or juice spritzers) to compensate for fluid loss
• Do not go to the sauna if you have a fever or a cold
• Be careful if you have cardiovascular disease, in this case check with your doctor before going to the sauna

Sauna search without sweating

To The sauna guide you are sure to find the right sauna or thermal bath for you - conveniently sorted by region.

Good advice for your mineral supply

By sweating so much, we inevitably lose important vital substances through our skin. Although water makes up 99% of body fluids, sodium (hence the salty taste), potassium, magnesium and zinc also leave the body. To replenish the mineral depot, it is worth taking a look at our Calcium & Magnesium Complex.