International Sauna Day

Steam, birch broom, hot stones, ice bath. A bath is not just washing, it's a ritual, philosophy, a medicine for all diseases. International Sauna Day is celebrated on June 13 (informally, but with enthusiasm). On this day, sauna lovers from all over the world remember the benefits of sauna procedures, share recipes, and some even open the season of steaming after winter. Sauna unites nations: Russian, Finnish sauna, Turkish hammam, Japanese sento — each has its own tradition, but the essence is the same: cleansing the body and spirit.

History of the Holiday

The International Sauna Day was proposed by Finns in the 2010s. The idea was supported by Russians, Estonians, Latvians. The holiday was timed to the summer solstice? No, to June 13 — the day when real summer arrives in Finland. In Russia, the holiday has been popular since 2015. In 2026, it falls on a Saturday, which is ideal for a trip to the sauna.

Russian Bath: Heat and Steam

Russian bath differs from high humidity (up to 70%) and temperature (60-80°C). Steam is supplied from a stove, where water is poured. Brooms: birch (for massage), oak (for skin), eucalyptus (for breathing). Tradition: first steam, then dive into an ice hole or rinse with cold water. Then — tea with herbs. Russian bath cures joints, skin, nerves.

Finnish Sauna: Dry Heat

Finnish sauna is dry air (10-20% humidity) at 80-100°C. Brooms are not used, but can be. It is forbidden to make noise in the sauna, it is a place for meditation. After — a pool or a dive into a lake. Finns believe that the sauna relieves stress and prolongs life.

Turkish Hammam: Gentle and Moist

Hammam is a steam room with marble floor and dome, humidity 100%, temperature 40-50°C. The body is steamed, then massaged with soap foam. Hammam is more of a spa procedure than extreme steaming. Popular in Islamic countries.

Japanese Sento and Onsen

Sento is a public bath in Japan, where you bathe sitting down, using basins. The water is hot, but the steam room is not necessary. Onsen are hot springs, often in the open air. Japanese believe that onsen cures diseases.

How to Celebrate International Sauna Day

Go to a bath or sauna (better with friends). Stock up on brooms (birch, oak). Prepare herbal tea (mint, St. John's Wort, thyme). Don't forget a hat (to avoid overheating your head). Don't drink alcohol! Only kvass, berry juice, water. After the bath — a contrast shower or snow (if there is any). Organize a "bath picnic": in nature, with a samovar.

Benefits and Contraindications

Sauna improves blood circulation, removes toxins, relieves muscle tension, cures colds (in the initial stage), normalizes blood pressure (in hypotensive patients). Contraindications: cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, ischemia), acute infections, epilepsy, pregnancy (late stages). Consult a doctor before visiting.

Bath in Culture

Russian bath is a character in fairy tales (Baba Yaga was steaming), films ("The National Hunt"), songs ("Banya" by the group "Lube"). In Finland, there is a sauna in every home. In Japan, sento are depicted in anime. Sauna unites regardless of nationality.

June 13 is a great day to get rid of winter melancholy and dirt. Don't be afraid of steam, broom, and contrast procedures. Steam wisely, and your health will thank you.

Permanent link to this publication: