If you’ve visited a sauna – especially outside of Finland – you might have noticed an accessory that’s very rarely found in saunas in Finland: a sauna sand timer, a sauna hourglass. While it’s an interesting and functional tool, it reflects a key cultural difference in how the sauna experience is approached globally versus in Finland, particularly when it comes to deciding how long you should stay in the sauna.
Before diving deeper, let’s make one thing clear: there’s no single “correct” way to enjoy the sauna. While the Finnish approach emphasizes a relaxed, go-with-the-flow attitude, we’re not here to claim that it’s the only way to enjoy your sauna time.
Common Questions About Sauna Time
It’s natural, especially for those new to saunas, to wonder:
How long should I stay in the sauna?
What’s the “right” amount of time?
How many sessions should I take during a visit?
Can I stay too long?
As sauna culture continues to gain global popularity, these questions come up more frequently – whether on social media, in customer inquiries, or during casual conversations. They’re valid, especially for newcomers who are trying to find their rhythm.
The Science of Sauna and Time
Research into the health benefits of sauna use is growing. Studies highlight positive effects on, for example, cardiovascular health, muscle recovery, stress relief, improved sleep, and overall well-being. Understandably, these studies rely on specific time limits and variables to produce reliable results. In general, research suggests that 15 to 20 minutes in the sauna is safe and effective for most people. For beginners or those not accustomed to high heat, shorter sessions of 5 to 10 minutes can still offer benefits.
That said, outside of research settings, the sauna experience isn’t about rigid rules or precise timing. It’s deeply personal. Tailoring your sauna time to your health, comfort, and preferences is key to maximizing the benefits.
The Finnish Way: No Rules, Just Feel
In Finland, saunas aren’t about rules, timers, or perfection. If there’s one guideline, it’s this: listen to your body. Your body will tell you when it’s time to step out, cool down, and decide whether to return for another session – however many times and for however long you want.
This is why you’ll rarely find sauna timers in Finland, and the pictured timer is from a hotel sauna abroad. Saunas are places of relaxation, not restriction. However, this isn’t to dismiss the use of timers – they can be helpful for newcomers or in structured settings. The Finnish way isn’t about insisting on “one true method” but about creating a personal ritual that works for you. We believe something as simple as sauna bathing shouldn’t be overcomplicated.
Ask for Sauna Advice!
If you’re unfamiliar with sauna traditions, it’s perfectly fine to ask questions or seek advice. You could start by asking a seasoned sauna enthusiast for tips or reaching out to a Finn to learn about their sauna rituals.
And you are more than welcome to connect with us at Hetki! For 24/7 guidance, you can also chat with Sauna Aatos, our AI sauna elf, on our website.
So, How Long Should I Stay in the Sauna?
The best answer is: as long as it feels good for you.
This might mean one or two short sessions of 5 to 10 minutes each, or a longer session of 15 to 20 minutes. In total, a sauna visit typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes – for some, it may be shorter, and for others, longer. As you get used to sauna bathing, you’ll likely find your sauna time naturally increasing.
The beauty of the Finnish sauna lies in its simplicity and personal nature – no timers required. But if a sauna hourglass helps you ease into the experience, go for it! Ultimately, the goal is to feel good and enjoy the moment, however you define it.