Intermediate

Löyly Ritual

The art of throwing water on sauna stones. Create steam (löyly), breathe deeply, embrace the heat wave. A meditative practice.

20 min

20 minute session

How to Practice

1. Settle onto the bench and allow your body to acclimate to the heat for 1-2 minutes. 2. Using the ladle, scoop a small amount of water (start with 1/4 ladle). 3. Evenly disperse the water onto the heated stones of the sauna stove, avoiding pouring large quantities at once to prevent a scalding burst of steam. 4. As the löyly (steam wave) rises, take slow, deep breaths through your nose. 5. Relax and enjoy the heat for a period of 5-15 minutes, listening to your body. 6. Exit the sauna to cool down before considering another round.

Tips

Start with less water; you can always add more for increased löyly.
Breathe deeply and slowly through your nose to manage the heat sensation.
Pour water evenly across the stones to create a gentle, widespread steam.
Always listen to your body and exit immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or unwell.

About This Practice

The art of throwing water on sauna stones. Create steam (löyly), breathe deeply, embrace the heat wave. A meditative practice.

How to Practice

1. Settle onto the bench and allow your body to acclimate to the heat for 1-2 minutes. 2. Using the ladle, scoop a small amount of water (start with 1/4 ladle). 3. Evenly disperse the water onto the heated stones of the sauna stove, avoiding pouring large quantities at once to prevent a scalding burst of steam. 4. As the löyly (steam wave) rises, take slow, deep breaths through your nose. 5. Relax and enjoy the heat for a period of 5-15 minutes, listening to your body. 6. Exit the sauna to cool down before considering another round.

Tips

Start with less water; you can always add more for increased löyly.
Breathe deeply and slowly through your nose to manage the heat sensation.
Pour water evenly across the stones to create a gentle, widespread steam.
Always listen to your body and exit immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or unwell.