Warm up the Finnish Way!

Saunas are trending in the UK, but in Finland they are such a cultural institution that, in 2020, Finnish sauna culture was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. 

An essential element of Finnish sauna are whisks – or vasta - which are believed to have been used for both physical and spiritual purposes for centuries. Typically measuring 50-75cm, sauna whisks are most commonly made from birch branches which are flexible, durable and also full of natural oils that release a pleasing aroma when heated. The branches, complete with their leaves, are bundled together in a fan shape and bound together at the handle with twine. 

Gently whipping your body with the vasta helps to remove dead skin cells, stimulate superficial blood circulation and promote metabolism, but using one is something of an art – here is a quick guide.

• Soak the whisk in cool water for a few minutes to make the leaves more pliable. 
• Dip the vasta in hot water - the steam released will intensify the heat and the birch aroma. 
• Gently tap or stroke your skin with the leafy end of the vasta, starting with your arms and legs then moving on to your back and chest. (Avoid your face and any sensitive areas.) You can increase the intensity but remember, the aim is to stimulate circulation not to cause pain! 
• Gently shake the vasta to remove excess water.

Experience this timeless Finnish tradition for yourself, under the expert guidance of a traditional therapist, as part of our holiday, Discover the Wild in Finland's Arctic Taiga.