Sauna
A traditional sauna experience in the Latvian countryside! The Latvian people have been taking saunas (Latvian – pirts) for centuries, and there are many references to the sauna and its rituals in our folk songs, folklore, and traditions.
The sauna cleanses the body and the spirit. It is a way to harmonize oneself and receive a wonderful boost of energy. It uplifts your mood, and regular use strengthens the immune system and speeds up recovery from diseases.
While in the sauna, the body:
- Relaxes itself and evacuates toxic chemicals through the skin
- Increases metabolic rate and blood circulation
- Reduces the risk of varicose vein problems
- Increases the flexibility of joints and ligaments
Faced with the responsibilities and stress of life in the city, Latvians often take to the traditional sauna for revitalization. The practice also gives us a chance to connect with one another and our historical traditions. There are a lot of fun rituals associated with the sauna that make you feel a connection with the land and its people.
The sessions can get pretty hot, if you want them to be! The temperatures in most saunas usually range from +40 to +80 degrees Celsius. Latvian saunas are right in the middle – a comfortable +62 C. Although some sauna enthusiasts would agree that +62 C (143 Fahrenheit) is a rather mild temperature, it is optimal for performing various sauna rituals.
The comfortably high temperatures produce a wonderful dizzying sensation, creating an almost spiritual experience. To stimulate the body’s perspiration, we rub the skin with body scrubs made of salt and herbs.
We can explain the different sauna procedures to you, and you can choose a ritual that suits you. Birch whisks and body scrubs (herbs, salt) are available at an additional cost.
Historically, Latvians have a lot of sauna rituals for many occasions throughout the year. We are particularly fond of birthday rituals. The sweat and intense heat often feels like a symbolic rebirth for most people.
The sauna is an optional service that will cost you a little extra. If you’d like to have a sauna session, please let us know in advance, so we can get a crackling fire going by the time you arrive.
If you really want to get your blood flowing, we can hire a traditional sauna master for you for an extra fee. This experience involves the soft beating of skin with oak branches or birch whisks. It is very pleasant, improves blood circulation, and the branches release a pleasant, earthy fragrance in the air. This is often followed by a temperature contrast procedure where you take a quick dip in cold water.