Sauna is central to Finnish identity - there are over 3 million saunas in a country of 5. 5 million people.
Sauna is central to Finnish identity - there are over 3 million saunas in a country of 5.5 million people. Traditionally saunas are used naked (the custom varies by region and context). In public saunas there are usually separate times for men and women. Mixed saunas exist among close friends or family. You add water to the stones (kiuas) to create steam (löyly). Beer and sausages (makkara) are traditional accompaniments. An invitation to someone's private sauna is a great sign of friendship.
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