The Finns are undoubtedly the happiest people in the world. They even have a double-meaning greeting – ‘terve’, which means both ‘hello’ and ‘healthy’.
If you want to understand Finnish culture or happiness, start with a sauna. In Finland, there are more than three million saunas - enough space for everyone to sweat out the negative. The Finnish love affair with saunas is not just a pastime but a national sport. Need to seal a business deal? Hop into a sauna. Feeling the need to unwind after a long day? Sauna time it is. Even if you're feeling a bit under the weather, you guessed it – sauna.
And there's science behind this steamy obsession. Saunas aren't just about sweating buckets; they're about sweating out stress too. When you spend time in a sauna, the heat can work wonders on your cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone in the body. Studies show that cortisol levels drop as your body temperature rises, relaxing tense muscles and calming your mind.
Saunas play a crucial role in Finnish culture, serving as spaces for relaxation, socialisation, and even problem-solving. It's where friendships are forged, deals are made, and troubles are left at the door. The sauna experience is deeply ingrained in the Finnish way of life, transcending generations and societal divides.
What makes saunas so effective at promoting happiness? It's not just the physical benefits of detoxification and improved circulation. The mental rejuvenation that comes from disconnecting from the outside world and embracing the present moment is equally vital. In the warmth of the sauna, Finns find solace, clarity, and a renewed sense of wellbeing.
So, next time you’re in need of a mood boost - step into a sauna. Embrace the heat, let go of your worries, and bask in the blissful tranquillity that comes with this Finnish tradition. In our world, happiness is always just a steam session away.