Baths are not only places for relaxation but also an important part of cultural traditions in different countries. Here are some interesting facts about baths:
The Bath as a "Cultural Phenomenon." In Russia and Finland, there is a tradition of organizing "bath days" when people go to the bath not only for hygiene purposes but also for socializing. In Finland, the Finns call the bath "the house of peace" (sauna) and hold real family gatherings there.
Russian Bath and the Broom. In Russia, a broom is used, typically made from birch or oak. But there is also a tradition of making a "broom of happiness" – a broom with eucalyptus branches, which is believed to bring good luck to the home.
The First Hammam. In Turkey, hammams (Turkish baths) have their origins in Roman baths. These baths are not just for washing but also for relaxation and socializing, and sometimes massage and scrubbing are essential elements.
Hot Springs and Ancient Rome. The Romans used hot springs to improve health and relax. They used not only water but also special oils and aromatic mixtures to improve blood circulation.
Sauna as a Symbol of Finland. In Finland, the sauna has become a national symbol, and in this country, for every 5.5 million inhabitants, there are about 2 million saunas. Finns have a tradition of holding important family events in the sauna, including childbirth and weddings.
Onsens in Japan. The Japanese believe that hot springs (onsen) not only cleanse the body but also cure diseases. In some places, the water from onsens is rich in minerals that help treat skin conditions and relax muscles.
Ancient Egyptian Baths. The ancient Egyptians used the bath as part of their religious rituals, considering it a way to spiritually cleanse themselves. They bathed in fragrant waters and used oils for skincare.
The Secret of the Ancient Greek Bath. The ancient Greeks used their baths not only for hygiene but also for philosophical discussions. The bath often became a place where important discussions took place, important deals were made, and useful connections were formed.
"Greek Portion of Steam." In Ancient Greece, baths were used not only for cleansing but also for sports training. Olympic athletes often took steam baths to improve flexibility and prepare for competitions.
Bath for Nerves. In Finland, it is said that the sauna is a place where you can "clear your mind" and refresh your thoughts. They believe that hot steam and tranquility help relieve stress and improve mood.
These facts confirm that the bath is not just a way to cleanse but also an important cultural and health tradition with a long history.
