With today's technology, we have the ability to design and build saunas with all of the bells and whistles. Saunas are now built to be connected to your phone, giving you the ability to control lights, music and temperature from the convenience of an app. Sure that's great for anyone trying to get a quick “sweat session”, but if you have the opportunity to experience a traditional Finnish wood-burning sauna, we highly recommend it. 

When it comes to sauna time, put away the phone… slow down…and just breathe.

At the same time, you must be present and proactive in the traditional sauna ritual. It all starts with getting the fire stoked! 

A traditional sauna uses wood as the primary heat source, so you can’t be passive when it comes to bringing on the heat. Set yourself up for success and get the firewood ready.

Remember the steps to a roaring fire:

1. Tinder - Tinder is an easily combustible material that’s primary purpose is to ignite kindling. It consists of small shavings or shreds of material that will burn hot quickly.

2. Kindling - Kindling is also used to start a fire, but it is larger than tinder. Its main job is to build up a fire to burn wood logs.

3. Fuel - Once the kindling is crackling, it's time to throw on the logs. Remember to use dry, seasoned logs as a fuel source. It’s also worth noting that the size of logs used depends on the size of the sauna stove and the fire within it.

Unlike an infrared or electric stove, a traditional wood-fueled sauna stove stimulates many of the senses from the fire alone: 

• Feel the warm dry heat on your skin all the way to your bones. 

• See the fire flicker a warm ambience into the room allowing your eyes to rest from the harsh bright screens of technology.

• Smell the sweet scent of smoke from the chimney, a cocoon of fragrant nostalgia and cozy smokiness.

• Listen to the comforting sounds of whispering crackles.

Sauna culture often involves specific rituals, such as cooling off in cold water between sauna sessions. To stay true to the roots of a traditional sauna, consider incorporating these rituals into your experience. For example, you could have a bucket of cold water or snow nearby for users to dip into after they've finished their sauna session.

By following these guidelines, you can create an authentic and traditional sauna experience that stays true to its roots.