RUSSIAN SAUNA

Also known as a Russian bath, it is very common in countries such as Russia and Ukraine. The main difference between a Russian sauna and a traditional Finnish sauna is its size, which is much larger, and its temperature, which is much higher.

In a standard sauna, the temperature inside the cabin ranges from 75°C to 85°C. In a Russian sauna, however, the temperature ranges from 100°C to 110°C. The materials used in such saunas must be suitable for high temperatures and durable. The manufacture of a Russian sauna requires special material selection and special work. The ceiling is manufactured like a classic sauna, but since the room volume is large in this type of sauna, the height is higher than standard, thus ensuring spatial integrity.

The side walls in Russian saunas are specially manufactured using log profiles. The log profiles used create a log cabin atmosphere in the space, beyond that of a wooden room. They are also highly resistant to the high temperatures of Russian saunas.

In Russia and Ukraine, washing continues during the use of Russian saunas. For this reason, wooden floor grates are generally not used in Russian saunas, or they are specially manufactured to be water-resistant.

Additionally, the wall behind the sauna heater is constructed using wider blasted stone or traditional red brick, and the sauna lighting system is designed and implemented to suit the environment.

What is a Russian sauna?

The name given to the sauna bath, known as the Russian sauna, which differs from the classic sauna. Widely used in countries such as Russia and Ukraine, this sauna has become an important part of daily life. Among the people living in these countries, it is referred to as a steam bath or simply a bath. Throughout its historical development, it has been used by the people regardless of class differences. In these countries, the Russian sauna is used not only for bathing but also for various gatherings, religious ceremonies, and seeking healing for illnesses.

What are the characteristics of a Russian sauna?

• The main difference is generally the high temperature applied. Temperatures of 100°C and above are typically used. This is higher than the temperature applied in a traditional sauna and can be quite oppressive for those who are not accustomed to it.
• Despite the high temperature, the humidity level is quite low. The humidity level, which is between 15% and 20% in a normal sauna room, can drop to as low as 5% in this type of sauna.
• Another difference is the ceiling height; as Russian saunas are installed in larger spaces, the room height is constructed higher than normal.
• Many of the wood materials used are selected for their ability to withstand high temperatures for long periods and remain undamaged for years. Special wood panels, thicker load-bearing elements, increased use of stone, and special ventilation are some of these features.

What is a venik and what is it used for?

The birch whisk is one of the essential accessories for the Russian sauna. In Slavic languages, it means broom. In the Russian sauna, it refers to a broom made from tree branches or leaves. It is used by lightly tapping the body.

In a Russian sauna, a venik is used to massage the body. Striking the body with the venik increases blood circulation and metabolic activity and, most importantly, revitalises the body. The unique scent of the leaves permeates your body and lingers until you take a shower.

Birch leaves or thin oak branches are used specifically for the venik. It is widely used in Russian sauna culture. This massage performed on the body with the venik also eliminates harmful organisms in the body and prevents their formation.

How are Russian saunas used?

• As with all other saunas, alcohol should be avoided before entering a Russian sauna.
• Those with heart conditions and breathing difficulties should consult their doctor.
• Sauna kullanımı sonrasında soğuk su ile duş alınabilir, kar çeşmesi kullanabilir veya şok duş ile vücudunuza zindelik kazandırabilirsiniz.
• Avoid staying in the Russian sauna for too long or moving around excessively.
• Before entering the sauna room, hot drinks should be consumed instead of cold drinks. After using the sauna, one should first take a shower and then drink plenty of water to replenish the body’s lost fluids.
• Afterwards, it is recommended to lie down and rest.

How is sauna usage in countries such as Russia and Ukraine?

• In Russia and Ukraine, sauna use has become an integral symbol of both history and culture, as well as social life, just like in the Scandinavian countries of Finland, Sweden and Norway.
• Although there are many saunas used collectively in social life, saunas have also been built for personal use in homes and holiday homes.
• In these countries, sauna use is extremely popular due to the cold and harsh climate. Russians have even built mobile saunas that can be transported by tractor to meet the demand for saunas in different regions.
• After using the sauna, Russians lower their body temperature and gain vitality by lying down on the clean snow in front of their homes. In a sense, this serves the same purpose as taking a cold shower after the sauna or rubbing snow from a snow fountain on the body.
• In these cultures, the sauna is not merely a room entered for health and vitality, but also one of the most important national traditions where meetings are held and family members spend time together.