In the United States, sauna culture may not be as prevalent as it is in countries like Finland or Sweden, but there is still a growing interest in the practice of using saunas for relaxation, health benefits, and socialization. One writer recently embarked on a 750-mile road trip through the heart of sauna culture in the U.S. in search of the perfect combination of steam, heat, and cold.
Saunas have been used for centuries in various cultures around the world for their therapeutic and social benefits. The practice of sauna bathing, or “taking a sauna,” involves sitting in a room heated to high temperatures, typically by a wood-burning stove or electric heater, and then either cooling off in a cold plunge pool, shower, or by rolling in the snow. This combination of heat and cold is believed to have numerous health benefits, including improving circulation, reducing stress, detoxifying the body, and even boosting the immune system.
The writer’s journey took them through states like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, where sauna culture is particularly strong due to the large number of residents with Scandinavian heritage. In these regions, saunas are a common feature in homes, cabins, and even public spaces like gyms and community centers. Sauna enthusiasts often gather for “sauna parties,” where they take turns sitting in the sauna, followed by dips in a nearby lake or cold shower, and then socialize over food and drinks.
One of the highlights of the road trip was a visit to the newly opened Sauna Village in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This unique sauna experience offers visitors the opportunity to try different types of saunas, including traditional wood-fired saunas, infrared saunas, and even a mobile sauna on wheels. The Sauna Village also features cold plunge pools, outdoor showers, and relaxation areas where guests can unwind after their sauna session.
Another stop on the writer’s journey was the Superior Sauna & Steam showroom in Ironwood, Michigan. This family-owned business has been manufacturing saunas and steam rooms for over 40 years and is known for their high-quality products. Visitors to the showroom can learn about the benefits of sauna bathing, see different sauna designs and accessories, and even try out a sauna for themselves.
Throughout the road trip, the writer encountered a diverse group of sauna enthusiasts, from seasoned veterans who have been taking saunas for decades to newcomers who were trying it for the first time. One common theme among all of them was the sense of community and camaraderie that comes with sauna culture. Whether it was sharing stories and laughs in the sauna, bonding over a cold plunge, or simply enjoying the peaceful solitude of sitting in the steam, sauna culture brings people together in a unique and meaningful way.
Overall, the writer’s road trip through the heart of sauna culture in the United States was a fascinating and enlightening experience. They discovered that sauna culture is more than just a trend or fad – it is a time-honored tradition with deep roots in wellness, relaxation, and social interaction. As interest in saunas continues to grow in the U.S., it is clear that this ancient practice has a bright future ahead. Whether you are a seasoned sauna enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there is something special about sitting in the steam, feeling the heat on your skin, and then cooling off in the crisp, refreshing cold. Sauna culture may have originated in the cold, dark winters of Scandinavia, but it has found a warm and welcoming home in the hearts of Americans across the country.