Banya
History: Where does the banya come from?
The Russian sauna is comparable to that in Finland. Its history also goes back a long way. In written sources from the sixth century, Byzantine chroniclers mention the preference of Slavic peoples and tribes for steam baths, which were housed in simple wooden huts.
Characteristics: What makes a banya special?
A classic banya consists of several rooms:
- Washing room - this is where the body is cleansed before and after sweating.
- Sweating room - the central room where high temperatures and steam prevail.
- Relaxation room - used for relaxation between sauna sessions.
It is characterized by the use of birch branches (Wenik), with which the body is gently tapped. This is said to stimulate blood circulation and cleanse the skin. In addition, the banya is often used as a social meeting place where conversations take place - sometimes even of a business nature.
Differences: How does a banya differ from a sauna?
Banja and sauna have both similarities and clear differences, which are shown in the following overview.
Differences between sauna and banya
How it works: How does a banya work?
The banya is traditionally heated with a wood-burning stove. Water is poured onto the hot stones, sometimes beer or infusions with essential oils. The resulting steam ensures high humidity and an intense sweating experience. The temperature range is usually between 70 and 80 °C.
Etiquette: How do you behave in a banya?
In Russia, men and women take saunas separately. Nevertheless, it is customary to never enter a banya naked, but with a towel. The banya is also used to maintain social contacts and sometimes even business relationships. So it is allowed to speak.
Indications: How does a stay in a banya work?
Regular visits to a banya can have a positive effect on your health:
- Lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease
- Improving blood lipid levels (e.g. lowering cholesterol levels)
- Support of the immune system
- Promotion of muscle relaxation and alleviation of stress symptoms
Contraindications: What are the side effects of a stay in a banya?
Although the banya is often better tolerated than the classic Finnish sauna, certain groups of people should be careful. People with cardiovascular problems, acute infections or certain skin conditions are advised not to visit a banya, as the high temperatures and humidity can put additional strain on the circulation.
Conclusion
The most important facts about the banya at a glance
- 1. The banya is a traditional Russian steam bath with temperatures around 70-80 °C.
- 2. The high humidity (close to 100%) is characteristic.
- 3. Birch twigs are used to stimulate the skin.
- 4. Banjas are also used for social and business meetings.
- 5. Studies show positive effects on cardiovascular health and the immune system.
- 6. People with certain pre-existing conditions should be careful.
FAQ - Further questions about the banya
The banya usually has lower temperatures but significantly higher humidity than a Finnish sauna.
A visit costs on average between 10 and 15 euros per hour.
A single sweat session lasts around 10 minutes. In addition, there are 30 to 60 minutes for the treatments with birch branches and rest periods between the sessions.
Towel, slippers and a banya cap to protect your head from the heat.