THERMACULTURE
Minnesota is not just cold weather and hot dishes, it’s also the land of saunas. Sauna culture is more than just a relaxing tradition; it's a social and communal experience that connects people. There’s nothing quite like basking in the warmth of a sauna and swapping stories with loved ones. It’s the perfect way to unwind and connect while reaping many health benefits as well.
Minnesota’s cultural heritage holds a strong tradition of thermaculture practices. From Indigenous Americans performing sweat lodge ceremonies to Eastern European immigrants frequenting community bathhouses, “sweating it out” has been a common practice interwoven into our cultural tapestry. Finns brought their savannas (smoke saunas) to Minnesota way back in 1860s, and the state has been a hub for sweat culture ever since. Built in Cokato, MN in 1868, The Barberg-Selvala-Salmonson Sauna is believed to be the oldest surviving sauna in Minnesota and possibly in the United States.
Beyond the social and cultural dimensions, saunas offer many health benefits. The act of basking in the sauna's warmth stimulates circulation, promoting cardiovascular health. The detoxifying effects contribute to a sense of rejuvenation. Saunas also serve as a sanctuary for releasing muscle tension and may help relieve some symptoms of arthritis, headache, and flu, providing a holistic approach to both physical and mental well-being.
Local sauna clubs and cultural organizations in Minnesota are putting in the work to preserve and promote this time-honored tradition. Recognizing the cultural significance of saunas, these groups work tirelessly to ensure the practice endures and is passed down to future generations. Through events, education, and community engagement, they contribute to the continuity of sauna culture and safeguard a piece of Minnesota's heritage.
So, if you don't have a sauna at home, don't worry! You can rent a wood-fired sauna and all the wood you need from local companies like Nomad Sauna, Little Ember Co., or Stokeyard. All you need is a flat spot to park it. There is also the member-owned sauna co-op 612 Sauna Society at the Trailhead at Theodore Wirth, which is open to the public until March. Additionally, you can check out Thermaculture Thursdays at the Hewing Hotel Rooftop. And keep an eye out for pop-up sauna events happening near you; there are more and more every year!
From its historical roots to the multitude of health benefits, sauna culture encapsulates a distinctive facet of Minnesota's identity. The next time you’re feeling stressed or under the weather, get out there and enjoy our state’s unique sauna culture. Experience the warmth, resilience, and community spirit that defines this tradition. Your body (and your mind) will thank you!