BLOG & NEWS

In Finnish folklore, the sauna elf – or saunatonttu – guarded the sauna’s warmth and spirit, reminding visitors to behave respectfully. At Hetki we honor this tradition with Aatos, our AI sauna elf who quietly carries the same values of helpfulness and respect into the digital age, guiding you to authentic sauna experiences.

Forests cover over 75% of Finland, shaping its culture, economy, and way of life. They are Finland’s “green gold” – sustaining biodiversity, storing carbon, and supporting well-being. At Hetki, we honor these forests by crafting log saunas from certified Finnish spruce, connecting each sauna to nature and centuries of tradition.

Sauna and sleep go hand in hand for health and balance. Heat and löyly improve relaxation, reduce stress, and prepare the body for deep rest. With small routines and proper care, your Hetki sauna stays safe, inviting, and durable for years, supporting wellbeing at home or your retreat.

Sauna is more than relaxation – it’s a source of joy, connection, and health. Science now confirms what Finns have long known: regular sauna use supports well-being, strengthens bonds, and even boosts happiness. With over 3 million saunas, Finland tops global happiness rankings, and sauna culture is a key reason why.

A true Finnish sauna is never just dry heat. Without löyly – the steam and warmth from pouring water on hot stones – it cannot be called a sauna. Löyly is the soul of Finnish sauna culture, balancing temperature and humidity for a unique experience. At Hetki, every sauna is built to celebrate this tradition.

How long should you stay in the sauna? Research often suggests 15 to 20 minutes, yet the Finnish way is not about timers or strict rules. Instead it is about listening to your body, finding your rhythm, and enjoying the moment. The beauty of sauna lies in its simplicity and personal nature.

Saunailta, or sauna evening, is a Finnish tradition that blends relaxation with togetherness. More than just heat and steam, it’s a chance to disconnect from screens, enjoy laughter and conversation, and create lasting memories with friends, family, or even strangers. Sauna evenings embody wellness, bonding, and community.

Löyly, the steam and heat created when water is thrown on hot stones, is the essence of the Finnish sauna. Once seen as a sacred life force, it remains the defining mark of a good sauna today. Gentle or powerful, löyly carries history, spirit, and relaxation, turning the sauna into a place of community and renewal.

Scientifically backed evidence supporting the health and wellness benefits of Finnish sauna is growing, as highlighted in the comprehensive review by Setor K. Kunutsor MD, PhD and Jari A. Laukkanen MD, PhD in their article in Mayo Clinic Proceedings*. While Finns have long believed in the therapeutic effects of sauna for its relaxing qualities, modern research now provides compelling scientific validation of its health benefits. Beyond their cultural and social significance,

This is a bundle of fresh birch twigs - known as a vihta or vasta - used in Finnish sauna traditions to gently tap heated skin. Learn how the whisk enriches your sauna experience with aroma, improved circulation, skin benefits, and a connection to Finnish heritage.

Spruce enriches life in many ways – from nutrient-rich sprouts and their refreshing flavor, to its strength as a natural building material for rejuvenating log saunas, and its role as the classic Christmas tree. In Finland, spruce is part of daily life and culture, offering health, joy, and timeless connection to nature.

Finnish supersauna meets Finnish superberries! Together with Arctic Warriors, we celebrate lingonberries and blueberries from Lapland, rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Just like sauna, they are a true wellness powerhouse. Enjoy the combined strength of authentic Hetki saunas and wild Finnish superfoods.