In Finland, the Christmas sauna, or joulu sauna, holds a cherished place among time-honored traditions. Rooted in ancient folklore filled with elves and spirits, this ritual was once believed to ward off misfortune and ensure a bountiful harvest in the coming summer. While most contemporary Finns may no longer cultivate flax or leave straw on the sauna benches for the mythical sauna elf, many of these enduring beliefs still offer a touch of magic, ensuring that today’s Christmas sauna remains a particularly special experience.
Did you know? The Finnish word “joulu,” meaning Christmas, actually derives from Yule, an ancient Germanic midwinter festival. Interestingly, early Finnish Christmas celebrations were entirely separate from Christianity.
1. Create a Festive Atmosphere
In the intimate confines of apartment building saunas, decoration options may be limited. However, if you’re fortunate enough to have access to an outdoor sauna, your creativity knows no bounds. Here are some ideas to truly capture that traditional Finnish Christmas ambiance:
- Set candles or lanterns on the sauna steps.
- Adorn the space with linen sauna towels and cushions filled with wheat.
- Hang Christmas ornaments on nearby trees.
- Lay spruce branches at the entrance to whisk away snow and dirt from your shoes (with landowner permission, of course).
- Hang a festive wreath on the sauna door.
- And don’t forget—clad yourself in a charming linen elf hat while you enjoy the sauna!
As you prepare for your sauna session, gather skin-friendly sauna honey, a scented oil for the stove, and the beloved tar-scented soap. These items are widely available in Finnish supermarkets and will enrich your experience.
2. Embrace Silence
Traditionally, raucous chatter in the Christmas sauna was believed to bring about misfortune, like being plagued by swarms of mosquitoes in summer. While not everyone may subscribe to such superstitions today, there’s something to be said for the calming ambiance that silence creates. This sacred space of quiet allows for deeper relaxation—not just for yourself, but for those around you. After all, even the sauna elf appreciates a moment of peace.
3. Roll in the Snow
If you’re greeted by a winter wonderland, take a moment to roll in the snow between sauna sessions. This invigorating practice is said to boost circulation and cleanse both body and spirit. Ice swimming serves a similar purpose, providing that thrilling contrast of icy cold and steamy warmth that epitomizes the Finnish sauna experience.
However, always prioritize safety: never swim alone, and ensure the snow is soft and deep enough for rolling.
4. Mind Your Manners
Whistling, swearing, or indulging in too much drink were all said to please the Devil—a presence most prefer to keep at bay during the festive season. Regardless of belief in old folklore, it’s simply courteous to maintain respectful behavior in the sauna, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience. In Finnish culture, this adherence to calmness and consideration is encompassed by the concept of sauna peace.
5. Get Creative with Whisks
In midwinter, the availability of fresh birch branches might be scarce, but don’t let that deter your sauna spirit. Many Finns dry fresh birch whisks during summer, saving them for Christmas. These dried whisks can be purchased, but remember to soak them in water while the sauna heats up to keep the leaves from crumbling.
For those who like a bit of a challenge, a winter whisk made from juniper is an excellent alternative. Simply soak the juniper in boiling water for about half an hour before using it. Not only does whisking fill the sauna with delightful aromas, but a juniper branch, even unboiled, makes for a lovely holiday decoration.
6. Beer on the Stove
For farmers hoping for a bountiful harvest, splashing a bit of beer onto the sauna stove is a festive gesture. This practice releases a warm, malty scent into the air—a delightful invitation for good fortune, or so the story goes.
7. Sauna Early and Make Space for the Unseen
Traditionally, saunas are enjoyed in the evening. On Christmas, however, Finns often start their bathing earlier in the day. This approach is thought to smooth out the path for the upcoming year’s endeavors. There’s also a charming custom that involves leaving one corner of the stove dry for spirits, elves, and even loved ones who may have passed on. After your session, make sure to let everyone know the sauna is free—use your voice! Leaving that corner dry ensures a hot spot for newcomers.
In some traditions, it’s believed that saunas visited too late on Christmas could attract unwanted ghostly activities, perhaps because of the displeasure of elves and spirits craving their own holiday peace.
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