International Sauna Day Steam, birch broom, hot stones, ice hole. A bath is not just washing, it is a ritual, philosophy, a cure for all diseases. International Sauna Day is celebrated on June 13 (unofficially, but with great 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 peoples: 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 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 visit to the sauna. Russian Bath: Heat and Steam The Russian bath is characterized by high humidity (up to 70%) and temperature (60-80°C). Steam is supplied from a stove, water is poured onto it. Brooms: birch (for massage), oak (for the skin), eucalyptus (for breathing). Tradition: first steam, then dive into the ice hole or pour cold water over yourself. After that — tea with herbs. The Russian bath cures joints, skin, nerves. Finnish Sauna: Dry Heat The Finnish sauna is a dry air (10-20% humidity) at 80-100°C. Brooms are not used, but they can be. It is not allowed to make noise in the sauna, it is a place for meditation. After that — a pool or diving into a lake. Finns believe that the sauna relieves stress and prolongs life. Turkish Hammam: Gentle and Wet Hammam is a steam room with a 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. Prevalent in Islamic countries. Japanese Sento and Onsen Sento is a public bath in Japan, ... Read more