A warm welcome – Finnish sauna as a way to cleanse, calm, and connect

Rooted in tradition

The unique role of the sauna in Finnish culture is perhaps best illustrated through numbers. Finland, a country of 5.6 million people, is home to around 3 million saunas – the highest number per capita in the world. It’s estimated that more than half the population enjoys a moment in sauna weekly, and a vast majory of Finns have a sauna at home. Simply put, sauna is not just a tradition, it’s a way of life.

“We go to the sauna several times a week – whatever the season. In winter, sauna brings warmth and energy to the darkness. In summer, it’s part of the evening sun ritual. Sauna is both a way to recover and a small celebration in the middle of the week,” explain Sampsa Rinne and Jussi Korkeela, both pilots at Finnair.

If you grow up in Finland, chances are you’ll be introduced to the magic of sauna culture early on – even as young as six months old. From that first warm embrace of steam and silence, for many, sauna becomes a lifelong companion.  

“I was just a baby when I was taken to the sauna for the first time – and nothing has changed. My kids have been enjoying sauna with the family since they were about six months old,” says Matti Toropainen, Cargo Network Supervisor at Finnair. “It’s a cherished moment where we unwind and go through the day with the whole family. I can’t imagine life without sauna - at the same time, long-standing traditions passed down by one’s parents are quietly continued.”

“Sauna Saturdays were a thing in my childhood, and sauna was an essential part of big celebrations like Christmas or Midsummer,” recalls Timo Arndal, Chief Information Security Officer at Finnair. Essentially, there’s no part of life where sauna isn’t welcome – it’s ever-present, whether in the rhythm of everyday life or during meaningful celebrations.

What is it about sauna?

Introduced early and loved for life, sauna stays with most Finns throughout a lifetime. Perhaps the secret lies in its power to bring everything – and everyone – together. It’s a space where busy minds quiet, bodies find rest, and even after the busiest of days, people reconnect with themselves and with each other.

“It's like a basic human need. Sauna is a space for sharing joys and sorrows, making decisions, and sometimes even falling in love. Many of the most important memories of my life are linked to sauna – and I believe the best is yet to come,” says Annika Moilanen, IT Product Expert and former Cabin Crew Member at Finnair.

“Sauna is part of everyday life and celebration. For us, it’s not a luxury, but a necessity, and perhaps that's why it’s so special. It’s a simple but profound experience,” Jussi and Sampsa continue.

For Jussi, Sampsa and Annika, the love for sauna has turned into something even bigger – all three have started businesses around sauna culture. Annika runs Kiuas Klubi, a Helsinki-based community dedicated to yoga and urban sauna culture. Jussi and Sampsa are the founders of Sauna Raft Hiisi, a floating sauna experience amid Helsinki’s sea landscape.

So many saunas, so many ways

While sauna culture is deeply rooted in Finnish heritage, it warmly invites everyone to make it their own. In the sauna, titles and identities fade into the background. On the wooden benches, everyone is equal.

“There are countless ways to experience the sauna,” says Matti. “At home, at a friend’s or grandparents’ summer cottage, or even at a public swimming pool. You can choose the type that suits you best – electric, the most traditional wood-fired, or the atmospheric smoke sauna.”

As a matter a fact, public sauna culture in Finland is enjoying a strong revival. Across almost every major city, you’ll find beautifully designed saunas – from minimalist urban spots to lakeside retreats. If you’re visiting Helsinki, check out some of our favourite public sauna recommendations. And if you’re looking to combine travel with the peace of sauna, you’ll find a Finnish sauna in the Platinum Wing of our Non-Schengen Lounge at Helsinki Airport.

Still, many Finns feel the most authentic sauna experience is found off the grid.

“A truly Finnish summer cottage sauna – no running water, no electricity, surrounded by nature and by a lake – that’s the real deal,” says Timo. “It’s something every visitor in Finland should try at least once, if the opportunity arises.”

Despite shared and long traditions, everyone’s relationship with sauna is personal – shaped by routines and memories. There’s no single right way to do it.

“I go to the sauna both regularly and irregularly,” Timo continues. “Sometimes not for weeks, sometimes several times a week. Alone, with family, or with friends. But one thing’s always the same: it’s a space where the outside world doesn’t follow. It’s one of the last places where you can truly disconnect as your phone never comes in with you.”

A warm welcome awaits

Annika highlights how Finnish sauna culture is open, unpretentious and inclusive.

“Sauna welcomes everyone in just as they are – all you need to do is step in. Start gently, and don’t forget to toss some water on the stove to enjoy löyly, the steam created by pouring water on the hot stones. It’s the heart of the sauna experience, warming the air and softening the heat. And listen to the regulars – there’s no shortage of tips!”

Jussi and Sampsa are quick to jump in with a few:

“Go for it – but take it at your own pace. Begin on the lower benches, where it’s cooler, and bring a bottle of water. Let the heat do its work. If you’re feeling bold, a dip in cold water or a roll in the snow will refresh you like nothing else. And above all – don’t fear the silence. It’s part of the experience. But so is conversation. Sauna welcomes all ways of being.”