Why Saunas Are More Than Just Heat in Finland

Vol 28, Issue 06, 10th October 2025

If you are new to Finland, maybe as a new or exchange student, you have probably wondered about the importance of saunas for Finns. Actually, it’s something much more than just a sauna. Most Finns are relaxed, calm, and seemingly unbothered by the winter blues; the secret behind this lies in a small, steamy room called a sauna.

Saunas exist in many countries and are known for their peaceful and refreshing feeling afterward, but in Finland, it’s a way of life, especially during the long, cold winters. Interestingly, this “sauna lifestyle” is becoming famous in other countries too, and many people travel to Finland just to experience it.

Saunas are everywhere in Finland. You’ll find them in almost every apartment building, park, and even some workplaces. They are places to relax after a busy day, feel calm, and connect with others. You can go with your friends, family, colleagues, or even enjoy the peace alone.

There’s a funny Finnish saying: “If you can’t sit in a sauna, you can’t survive in Finland.” It’s true, because saunas are also social places where people open up and talk about life’s serious matters. It might sound unbelievable, but some companies even make deals in saunas — this is known as sauna diplomacy.

While saunas play an important social role, they’re also a mental and physical health booster. From a medical point of view, sweating in a sauna helps relax muscles, improve blood circulation, and flush out stress. In fact, many doctors in Finland recommend sauna sessions as part of relaxation or recovery treatments.

One unique Finnish sauna tradition is jumping into a frozen lake right after the hot sauna. It might sound crazy, but if you’re brave enough to try it, the sudden cold shock wakes up your body, boosts your energy, and leaves you feeling incredibly alive. It’s a mix of pain, thrill, and ultimate refreshment!

For students, whether international or Finnish, experiencing a sauna is a gateway into Finnish culture. It’s relaxing, sometimes funny, and always enlightening. More than anything, it teaches a simple but powerful lesson: slowing down, embracing silence, and connecting with others (and yourself) is priceless.

So next time you see steam rising from a Finnish lakeside cabin, don’t just pass by, step in, sweat a little, laugh a lot, and discover why the sauna is truly the heart of Finland.