Saunagus is a sensual and healing experience, where heat and steam are combined with essential oils to create a unique space for relaxation, immersion and renewed energy. But how does aromatherapy actually work in saunagus? What do the different scents do to the body and mind?
At Sauna House, aromatherapy is a central part of our daily steam sessions. The essential oils we use are carefully selected for their natural properties and ability to support both physical and mental balance. In this post, we guide you through how aromatherapy works in the sauna, and which oils you will most often encounter in a sauna steam session.
What is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses the scents of essential oils to affect the body and mind. The oils are extracted from plants, flowers, bark, fruit peels and herbs, and each oil has its own unique properties. When these oils are heated and distributed as steam in a sauna, they are absorbed through the nose and skin, activating the body's sensory system and creating various physical and psychological reactions.
In a sauna steam session, water mixed with essential oils is poured over the hot sauna stones. The steam lifts the scent into the room, and the steam master then distributes the steam with rhythmic movements with a towel. The combination of heat, moisture and scent creates an intense and therapeutic experience.
How do essential oils affect the body in the sauna?
When you inhale the warm, scented vapors, the scent molecules affect the limbic system in the brain, which is the area that regulates emotions, memory, and hormone production, among other things. In this way, the scents can affect mood, stress levels, energy levels, and bodily sensations.
In the heat of the sauna, the effect is intensified as the pores in the skin open, blood circulation increases, and breathing becomes deeper. This makes the body particularly susceptible to the effects of the essential oils, which is why aromatherapy plays an important role in sauna therapy.
Popular essential oils in saunas and their effects
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Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is one of the most commonly used oils in saunas. It has a fresh menthol scent and is known to open the airways. Perfect for deep breathing.
Effect : Expectorant, antibacterial, refreshing.
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Peppermint
Peppermint has a cooling and refreshing effect and stimulates both body and mind. The scent is mentally uplifting and sharpens concentration.
Effect: Invigorating, pain-relieving, energizing.
- Lavender
Lavender is known for its calming and stress-relieving effects. It is perfect for evening use, where the focus is on mental peace.
Effect: Calming, sleep-promoting, anxiety-reducing.
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Lemongrass
A citrus oil with a fresh and clean scent. Often used to create clarity and lightness. Lemongrass also has antibacterial properties and can help purify the air.
Effect: Purifying, mood-lifting, strengthening.
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Orange
Fruity, round and uplifting scent that evokes joy and warmth. Orange oil is mild and good for those new to aromatherapy.
Effect: Calming, mood-lifting, anti-stress.
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Rosemary
An oil with stimulating properties. Helps increase focus and improve mental clarity. Especially suitable in the morning or as an invigorating aid during the winter months.
Effect: Invigorating, promotes blood circulation, strengthening.
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Tea tree
With its medicinal scent and powerful antiseptic properties, tea tree is often used as a cleansing oil. It has a powerful effect on both the skin and respiratory tract.
Effect: Antibacterial, antifungal, immune-boosting.
How are the oils in saunagus composed?
The master of massage organizes each massage session based on a theme or desired effect. Some use only one oil for the sake of purity, while others combine several scents that complement each other. The combination of heat, movement and scents creates a dynamic flow where the body responds both physically and emotionally.
At Sauna House, aromatherapy is part of the whole.
We actively use aromatherapy in our sauna massage sessions to create experiences that are both sensual and balanced. Each massage session is unique, and you will encounter a variety of scents and moods, depending on the time of day, the season, and the massage master's approach.
Whether you come to find peace in your body, clarity in your mind, or simply want a break from everyday life, the essential oils help to deepen your experience and give you the feeling that your body is working with you.
Aromatherapy in saunas is more than just scent, it is an active part of the experience that affects both your body and mind. Through the conscious use of essential oils, we at Sauna House create a space where you can let go, breathe deeply and get closer to yourself.
