Taking Sauna
Making the most of it!
In order to make this the most beneficial and relaxing time in the sauna, we recommend the following rules and etiquette.
Preparation
Before you take a sauna, you should take off any jewelry, watches, or eyeglasses, as these will get hot in the sauna. Also, you should rinse off your body to keep the sauna as clean as possible.
Temperature
The sauna should be between 170 and 200 degrees. Add wood as necessary to reach and maintain the desired sauna temperature. Once the desired temperature is reached, open one or both round vents on the back wall to provide good airflow, which is one of the essential elements of great sauna. About 10 – 12 pieces of wood will provide enough fuel for heat and a great sauna session.
Steam
Ladle fresh water onto the rocks to create steam, or Loyly in Finnish. This will increase the heat, humidity, and awesomeness inside the sauna. Before putting water on the rocks, get approval from everyone in the sauna. You can use the provided essential oils to enhance the Loyly experience. Always place the oils into the ladle of water, never directly onto the rocks. When ladling water onto the rocks, start pouring away from you and work your way towards you. This will ensure that the steam does not burn you.
Hydrate
It is important to hydrate before, during, and after taking a sauna. Thirty-two (32) ounces of water and/or electrolytes is a great start. Beer and sauna is fantastic, just save it for after the sauna.
Listen
You need to listen to your body. Sauna is not a competition. For one round, 5 – 15 minutes is plenty, depending upon the individual and the temperature of the sauna. If you feel light headed or dizzy, get out. A proper cool down between rounds is essential. Rinse off with a hose or cold shower, take a dip in the cold plunge tank, roll in the snow, or just sit in the open air, enjoying the cool down and great conversation with your sauna mates. Repeat sauna and cool down three to four times, or as much as you can stand.
Wear
While Norra Dalen is an authentic sauna, we’re not THAT authentic. A swimsuit is required to use the sauna and you must use a towel to sit on. You can use your own towels or the ones that we provide.