The hygge guide
Sauna Protocol
FIre
Open both vents in the hot room. Crack the bottom tray of the fireplace 1/2 inch. Crinkle paper and place in stove. Add small kindling on top until paper is covered. Light paper and crack fireplace door to allow airflow. Monitor fire until flames are hot, then proceed to close fireplace door.
It is essential to have a hot coal base before adding large logs. Tend to the fire every 15 minutes until desired temperature. Add logs as needed.
Verify fireplace door is shut every time.
löyly
löyly is the steam created from water evaporating off the hot rocks. To create löyly, fill the black bucket with HOT water.
Wait until the sauna is hot before pouring water on the rocks. Pouring water too early will cool down the stove and slow down the heating process.
Pour a few drops of essential oils into the ladle and create löyly as needed. Please refrain from puring water on yourself or others, this sauna does not have a drain.
The Process
Hydration
Hydration is the most important practice to a healthy sauna session. Make sure you are well hydrated before entering
Shower
Take a shower to clean your body and remove any lotions, oils, or makeup
TOWEL
Bring a towel to sit or lie on in the sauna. This helps keep the sauna clean and comfortable
TIMING
RELAXATION
Start with shorter sessions if you’re newer to saunas. You can gradually increase your time as you come accustomed to the heat
Get comfortable. Bring a book, magazine or close your eyes. This is an excellent time to meditate and rewind
BREATHING
Try to maintain a steady, calm breathing pattern
TOLERANCE
Pay attention to your bodies signals. If you start feeling dizzy, nauscious, or uncomfortable, leave the sauna immediately
CONTRAST
Step outside to cool down gradually, or jump in the cold plunge/nearest body of water
HYDRATE
Drink more water to re-hydrate your body
REPEAT REST
After cooling down and re-hydrating, take some time to rest. Relaxation is an important part of the sauna experience
If desired, repeat the sauna session. Allow your body time to rest between sessions
CONSIDERATIONS
If you have any pre-existing health conditions, consult your doctor before using the sauna
Hygge
The meaning
Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is a Danish term that encompasses a feeling of coziness, comfort, and contentment. It’s a cultural concept representing a way of life focused on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, often through simple pleasures and everyday rituals.
Hygge involves embracing moments of relaxation, enjoying the company of loved ones, and indulging in activities that promote a sense of well-being and happiness. It’s a concept that emphasizes mindfulness, connection, and finding joy in the present moment.
Composition
Mobile Simplicity
The design was inspired by the dark wooden walls of ancient Norwegian stave churches. Our intent was to replicate the Norwegian philosophy of striving for moderation and balance. Therefore we created a contrast to the sharp landscape and raucous culture that surrounds us.
For us, mobility is the ultimate freedom. The Hygge Hut is heated with a Huum wood stove, and is lit with solar powered LED lights allowing it to be 100% off grid. A sauna without compromise lets the imagination roam.
Letting Nature in
The interior composes a hot room accompanied by a convenient changing room. This improves privacy and efficiency. The Interior is cladded with premium Western Red Cedar, ensuring aesthetic beauty and dimensional stability.
Natural river rock surrounds the huum sauna stove providing elemental contrast and an earthy aroma.
The large reflective window invites nature in, allowing us to appreciate the wilderness and wildlife that surround us.
Natural light evokes a spacial impression of warmth and hygge.
beneFits
BeneFits
The sauna tradition, practiced for thousands of years and mainly used for pleasure and relaxation, has holistic health benefits that are being increasingly discovered around the world.
Emerging evidence suggests that beyond its use for relaxation, sauna use is linked to several health benefits.
DetoxiFication
Stress Relief
Muscle
Relaxation and
Pain Relief
Improved
Immune System
Regular sauna use can improve heart function and circulation, potentially lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases
Lung function and respiratory benefIts
Sweating in a sauna helps flush toxins and impurities from the body through the skin
The heat of a sauna can promote relaxation and reduce stress hormones, contributing to overall mental well-being
The heat can relax muscles and soothe aches and pains in muscles and joints, beneficial after workouts or for those with chronic pain conditions
Regular sauna sessions can stimulate the immune system, potentially leading to a reduced likelihood of catching colds and other infections
Sauna use can improve lung function and may benefit people with respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis
Skin cleansing and rejuvenation
The sweating process can cleanse the pores, potentially leading to improved skin health and appearance
better sleep
The relaxation effect of sauna use can promote better sleep patterns, especially if used in the evening
increased metabolic rate
Some studies suggest that sauna use can slightly increase the metabolic rate, which might aid in weight loss efforts
Origin
Finnish sauna The Finnish sauna is steeped in ancient traditions and cultural significance. Dating back over two millennia, the roots of the Finnish sauna can be traced to simple pits covered with animal hides or wooden structures designed for the purpose of heating and bathing. The traditional Finnish sauna design evolved into small, wooden cabins with a distinctive wood-burning stove or kiuas, heating sauna stones to produce steam when water is thrown onto them.
Saunas became integral to Finnish daily life, serving as communal spaces for family gatherings, socializing, and even childbirth. With a deep connection to nature, many saunas are located in picturesque settings. Over time, sauna etiquette and rituals, such as the revered practice of “loyly,” have become integral to the sauna culture. 24 / Hygge
Today, the Finnish sauna is not only a symbol of well-being but also an enduring aspect of national identity, celebrated annually through events like Sauna Day and showcased in competitions that test participants’ endurance in high temperatures.
