Are Austrian saunas mixed?
For Brits and Americans Austria’s spa culture can come as a bit of a surprise – most of the saunas are mixed gender for starters, and swimming costumes are not allowed. For anyone unsure of what to expect or how to behave, here are some pointers.
How do you go in the public sauna?
Rinse off any sweat or dirt so you enter the sauna fresh, everyone in there with you will appreciate it. Stay aware of your space. Public saunas can get crowded, so be courteous and be wary of how much space you’re taking up. If someone new joins the sauna, make room for them so everyone can sit comfortably.
How should you act in a sauna?
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to behave in a Finnish sauna.
- Undress.
- Take a shower.
- Go to sauna naked or with a towel (check if you are allowed to use a swimsuit.
- Throw water on the hot stones as much as you want.
- Cool off outside/in the shower/swimming.
- Repeat as many times as you want.
What should you not do in a sauna?
Drink at least one full glass of water before and after using a sauna, to avoid dehydration. Don’t drink alcohol before, during, or after sauna use. Don’t use recreational drugs before, during, or after sauna use. Don’t eat a large meal prior to using a sauna.
What do Finnish people wear in the sauna?
Finn’s usually go in the sauna naked, but you can wear a towel or costume. The naked body is not a ‘thing’ or ‘taboo’ in Finland, people are very body positive! So, they won’t judge you for going in without anything on. But, if you’re feeling shy, wear a towel.
Is it OK to sauna twice a day?
Two sessions are enough if you use the sauna two times a week. In the end, if you go to the sauna daily, you shouldn’t take more than one session at once. Keep in mind that excessive sessions may cause the opposite effect and weaken your body.
What country has the most saunas?
Finns own more saunas per capita than anywhere else in the world—2 million, or about one per household. While that’s partly cultural, it’s also because of the weather; Finnish winters fall to lows of -35°C (-31°F) in more temperate south, and -50°C in the coldest north.