Why going to the sauna with the boss is good manners in Finland
In Finland, going to the sauna with your boss is part of good manners and everyday working life. Why is that? The sauna is not only about relaxation, but also about social cohesion and conviviality. Here you get to know each other on a completely different level and build trust. In Finland, the sauna is considered a place of equality, where everyone is naked and there are no hierarchies. That’s why it’s not a problem if you sauna together with your boss or other colleagues. It’s a way to meet at eye level and deepen your working relationship. But be careful: there are pitfalls to avoid in Finland, too. Learn more about them in the next section.
The Finnish culture of relaxation: Why the sauna is an important part of Finnish everyday life
In Finland, going to the sauna is part of everyday life and an important part of the culture. It is not uncommon to go to the sauna after work with colleagues or the boss. This is not only for relaxation, but also to strengthen interpersonal relationships. Finns consider the sauna as a place where you can relax from the stress and bustle of everyday life.
It is a place of rest and reflection, where you can take time for yourself. The sauna is also a place of purification, both physical and mental. It is a tradition that has been practiced for centuries and one that Finns are proud of. So if you travel to Finland, be sure to take the opportunity to experience the culture of relaxation and purification in the sauna.
The history of sauna bathing in Finland
In Finland, taking a sauna is not only a means of relaxation, but also a significant social tradition. The history of sauna bathing dates back to the Viking Age, when the sauna was used as a place for purification and healing. Over the years, the sauna became a place for socializing and sharing. Nowadays, it is common in Finland to go to the sauna with friends, family or even business partners. Going to the sauna with the boss is even considered a good sign for the relationship between employer and employee. It shows that you understand and respect each other on a personal level.
In Finland, going to the sauna is simply part of good manners and an important part of the culture. However, the sauna is not only popular in Finland, but also in other countries. In Scandinavia and Russia it is also deeply rooted and traditionally used. But also in Germany there are more and more people who regularly visit a sauna. And for good reason: because a sauna visit has many positive effects on body and mind.
The heat dilates our blood vessels and stimulates circulation. This relaxes the muscles, relieves pain and eases tension. But a visit to the sauna is not only good for us physically – it also helps us to relax mentally and leave everyday life behind us. So, all in all, the sauna offers a wide range of benefits for our health – both physical and mental. No wonder, then, that it has been an integral part of many cultures for centuries!
The corporate environment: how sauna use has become a cultural phenomenon
Many Finnish companies have their own sauna available for employees and customers. So it’s not uncommon to go to the sauna with your boss or business partner. It is even a sign of trust and appreciation to be invited. But be careful: even in the sauna, there are pitfalls that should be avoided. For example, it is inappropriate to talk business if the boss does not bring up the subject. But if you know the rules, a visit to the sauna can be a memorable experience.
But what is the right way to behave in a Finnish sauna? First of all, you should be aware that nudity is normal here. There are some public saunas where swimwear is allowed – but if you really want to be part of the experience, you should refrain. Another important point: before entering the cabin, make sure you shower off thoroughly! After all, the point is to sweat clean and not bring in any bacteria or dirt particles.
The most important thing during your stay: Keep calm! Conversations should be kept quiet or preferably avoided altogether – after all, every guest should be able to relax. And if you have become addicted to this incomparable feeling of relaxation and cleansing after your first visit? Then you can consider yourself lucky: There are more than 3 million private saunas in Finland – so plenty of opportunities to sweat regularly!
Conclusion: Why going to the sauna with your boss is so prestigious in Finland
It’s all about creating a relaxed atmosphere and breaking the hierarchy barriers. In Finland, the sauna is an important part of the culture and is often seen as a place to cleanse and relax. So when you go to the sauna with your boss, it shows that you are ready to move to a more personal level and break away from your professional role. It’s also a good opportunity to get to know each other better and possibly gain new perspectives. Of course, you should always remain respectful and professional while doing so, but going to the sauna together can definitely help you build a better relationship with your boss.
