How Finns Use Saunas Brooms?

How Finns Use Saunas Brooms?

In Finland, the use of sauna brooms, known as vihta or vasta depending on the region, is an integral part of the traditional sauna experience. The practice of using these leafy birch brooms is deeply rooted in Finnish culture and is considered essential for getting the full benefits of a sauna session.

Here’s how Finns use sauna brooms in their rituals, along with some interesting details about this beloved tradition. Finns consider the sauna as more than just a place to relax – it’s a sacred space where traditions like using the vihta have been preserved and passed down for centuries.

The gentle whipping with birch brooms not only enhances the sauna experience physically but also connects sauna-goers to a rich cultural history that celebrates wellness, nature, and community.

What Is a Vihta?

The vihta (used in western Finland) or vasta (used in eastern Finland) is a broom made from fresh or dried birch branches tied together. These brooms are typically made from young birch branches that have supple leaves, giving them a soft yet sturdy texture.

The aromatic oils from the birch leaves are released during use, filling the sauna with a fresh, forest-like scent that enhances the relaxation experience.

How Do Finns Use Sauna Brooms?

Soaking and Preparing the Vihta:

Before entering the sauna, Finns soak the vihta in water to soften the leaves and branches. If the broom is fresh, a quick rinse is often enough. However, if the vihta is dried, it needs to be soaked in warm water for about 20 to 30 minutes to rehydrate the leaves and make them pliable.

Warming Up the Vihta in the Sauna:

After the vihta is soaked and ready, it’s placed on the hot sauna stones or hung near the heat source to warm up. This step helps release the birch’s natural oils, filling the sauna with its signature scent. The warmth also makes the vihta more comfortable to use on the skin.

Self-Massage with the Vihta:

Once the vihta is warmed up, sauna-goers use it to gently beat or brush their skin. The idea is not to strike too hard but to use the broom to stimulate circulation, exfoliate dead skin cells, and promote sweating. The practice of lightly whipping oneself with the birch branches is called vihtominen.

The vihta is typically used in long, sweeping motions over the body, starting from the shoulders and moving down to the legs. The rhythmic motions combined with the heat of the sauna create a deeply relaxing and invigorating sensation.

Assisted Vihtominen:

In a traditional Finnish sauna, vihtominen is often a social activity. Friends or family members take turns helping each other by gently whipping the other’s back with the vihta. This practice is especially common during family sauna sessions or special occasions like midsummer celebrations or post-sports recovery.

Enhancing the Steam (Löyly):

Finns often enhance the sauna experience by splashing water onto the hot stones to create steam, known as löyly. While this is happening, some people wave the vihta in the air to distribute the steam and fragrance throughout the sauna. This intensifies the heat and makes the aroma of the birch leaves more potent, adding another layer of sensory delight to the sauna session.

Cooling Down:

After using the vihta in the hot sauna, it’s customary to cool down by stepping outside into the fresh air, jumping into a cold lake, or even rolling in the snow during winter. The contrast between the heat and cold is invigorating, and the vihta’s effects on the skin help enhance the overall experience.

Benefits of Using a Vihta in the Sauna

  • Improved Circulation: The light whipping action of the vihta stimulates blood flow, which helps to relax muscles and alleviate tension.
  • Exfoliation: The leaves of the birch broom help to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and leaving the skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.
  • Detoxification: The increased circulation and sweating encouraged by the use of the vihta promote detoxification by helping the body expel toxins through the skin.
  • Aromatherapy: The natural oils released from the birch leaves have a calming effect and provide an aromatic experience that enhances relaxation.
  • Social Connection: The use of vihta is often a communal activity, fostering a sense of togetherness and bonding among sauna-goers.

Seasonal Rituals and Cultural Significance

In Finland, the use of vihta is not just a health practice—it’s a cherished tradition that is especially prominent during certain times of the year. For example, during midsummer, fresh birch vihtas are a must-have for many sauna sessions.

After midsummer, people often prepare dried vihtas for use during the colder months, ensuring they can continue the ritual year-round. This tradition is passed down through generations, and many Finns take pride in crafting their own vihtas by selecting and cutting birch branches from local forests.

The process of making a vihta is often a meditative activity that connects people with nature and their cultural heritage.

So, if you ever find yourself in a Finnish sauna with a vihta in hand, embrace the ritual and enjoy the full sensory experience. It’s a time-honored tradition that’s sure to leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and deeply relaxed.