Saunas and cold plunges: Bonding the Nordic way

Finland and Denmark love their saunas, and for good reason. It helps with sleep, improves skin and leads to social bonding

- Joanna Lobo

We do it naked, usually."

I am visiting my cousin, Valerie, in her married home in Helsinki. It's my first day and my body, aided by several layers of thermals and winter wear, is still adjusting to Finland's snow and cold. As my first initiation into local life, she's teaching me about that very quintessential Finnish tradition, saunas.

Before this holiday, I have to confess, I didn't like saunas. It didn't make sense to willingly sweat it out in a hot room when I live in a place that gives you that experience, almost daily, and for free. The few times I tried a sauna, I couldn't bear the heat beyond minutes. At massages, I would skip the steam room.

Then I found myself in Helsinki, my first time seeing and being in the snow. Excitement offered an adrenaline rush but not warmth. Enter the sauna.

Finns love saunas. They are an integral part of Finnish culture. Most have been visiting saunas since they were children. From what I observed, saunas are looked upon as a revered community space, a chance to bond and create memories. Saunas can typically be found in every home, in some public spaces and even in the Parliament House.