The Upper Bench on Hot Topics in Sauna: More Than Just Heat: Unlocking the Depth of Finnish Sauna
- Feb 15, 2025
- 1 min read
Get ready for some "hot takes" with Eero Kilpi, Risto Rice, and Sam Wacha, co-hosts from the famed Upper Bench podcast. This session explores how Finnish-style sauna—a rich, multi-sensory cultural tradition—has been simplified in modern America into a one-dimensional, sweat-centric "hot box phenomenon." He traces its historical and cultural roots, emphasizing the essential elements—earth, air, water, and fire—that create an authentic sauna experience. Highlighting key features such as user-controlled steam and multiple heating and cooling rounds, Eero clears up common misconceptions and champions a holistic, multi-dimensional approach to enjoying this sacred practice. This conversation invites a deeper appreciation of sauna as a health-enhancing and mentally enriching practice rooted in Finnish tradition.
Speakers: Eero Kilpi, Sauna Champion and FFN Lecturer of the Year, with his Upper Bench Podcast Co-Hosts Risto Rice and Sam Wacha