As the old Finnish proverb has it: First build the sauna. Then the house.

More and more people around the world are rediscovering an ancient secret to wellbeing, relaxation and stress relief: the humble sauna. By gently raising the heart rate and relaxing muscles, the magical steam that rises from the heated stones - what Finns call löyly - has improved quality of life in the Nordic region for millennia.

In this practical guide, leading global expert Lassi Liikkanen teaches us how to plan, build and maintain a new sauna, with detail on insulation, panelling, and bench construction, and uses the examples of an indoor electric sauna and an outdoor sauna cabin with a wood-burning heater. Along the way, you will learn the traditions and science of sauna, and for the first time Dr Liikkanen introduces his history of Finnish sauna as defined by four eras.


Whether you're already planning to build your own, or just beginning to learn of the health benefits of sauna, this book is the perfect introduction to löyly and the very Finnish art of living well. Prepare to embrace the deep sense of calm and connection that comes from this simple marriage of steam, wood and stone.