Sauna whisking is the use of tree branches in a sauna, and while it might sound strange, it’s a real and time-honored tradition.
This old practice comes from countries like Estonia and Finland, where people have used leafy branches in saunas for hundreds of years.
The branches are tied together into a bundle called a sauna whisk. People gently tap or sweep their skin with it while sitting in the hot sauna.
It might seem unusual at first, but many say it feels amazing and helps them relax. Today, more people in the United States are trying sauna whisking at home or in sauna spas.
In this article, you’ll learn what a sauna whisk is, how it works, and how you can try it yourself — even if you’re brand new to saunas.
What Is a Sauna Whisk?
A sauna whisk is a bundle of fresh or dried tree branches tied together, designed for use in a hot sauna.
These sauna whisks are most commonly made from birch, valued for its soft leaves and clean scent.
In different cultures, they go by different names. For example, in Estonia, it’s called a viht.
How to Use a Sauna Whisk?
How to use a sauna whisk properly enhances both the benefits and enjoyment of your sauna session.
Whether you’re using a freshly made or dried sauna whisk, preparation is key. If the sauna whisk is dry, soak it in warm water for 15–20 minutes to rehydrate the leaves and release their natural scent.
Some people like to place the sauna whisk in a bowl of hot water inside the sauna to let the aroma fill the room.
Once your body has warmed up in the sauna for a few minutes, begin sauna whisking by gently patting or sweeping the sauna whisk across your skin.
The sensation should feel like soft brushing or rhythmic tapping, not painful or harsh. The heat opens your pores, and the whisking stimulates blood flow, creating a warm, tingly feeling that many find deeply relaxing.
You can whisk yourself or ask a partner to help.
When someone else performs the whisking, it can feel more like a full-body massage, especially when done with steady, flowing motions. If you’re doing it solo, use slow, intuitive strokes and focus on areas that feel tense or tired.
To finish, rinse off with a cool shower or step into a cold plunge pool — this contrast boosts circulation and leaves your skin refreshed. With a little practice, sauna whisking becomes a soothing, almost meditative ritual.
Why Do People Use Whisks in the Sauna?
Why do people use whisks in the sauna? The short answer: for both wellness and pleasure.
The act of whisking helps exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and boost blood circulation.
Many describe the sensation as a gentle, rhythmic massage that deeply relaxes the body. On top of that, the fresh aroma of the branches brings the scent of the forest into the sauna, adding to the soothing atmosphere.
What Does Sauna Whisking Feel Like?
What does sauna whisking feel like? Surprisingly gentle and calming.
It’s not meant to be painful or intense — think of it as light tapping or brushing across your skin.
The sensation can feel warm and slightly tingly, almost like a wave of heat paired with a forest breeze. You can whisk yourself or invite a trusted sauna partner to help.
Most Popular Types of Sauna Whisks
The most popular types of sauna whisks are made from tree branches and herbs that bring unique textures, aromas, and wellness benefits to your sauna session.
Each material creates a slightly different experience — from the soothing scent of birch to the invigorating feel of oak or eucalyptus.
Here are the most widely used types:
Birch sauna whisk
The classic and most popular choice. Birch has soft, flexible leaves and a fresh, slightly sweet aroma. It’s gentle on the skin and helps open pores and relax muscles.
Oak sauna whisk
Oak offers stronger, broader leaves and a more robust aroma. Oak whisks are durable and give a firmer massage-like feel, great for invigorating circulation.
Maple sauna whisk
Maple leaves are soft and slightly sticky when warm, giving a unique texture. These whisks are less common but appreciated for their smooth, calming whisking experience.
Eucalyptus sauna whisk
Popular for its invigorating, menthol-like scent, eucalyptus adds a therapeutic element to whisking. It’s especially great for clearing the sinuses and refreshing the air in the sauna.
Bamboo sauna whisk
Bamboo sauna whisks are less traditional but growing in popularity for their strength and sleek texture.
They don’t have leafy foliage, but provide a firm, rhythmic tapping sensation that stimulates circulation. Bamboo is durable, quick-drying, and ideal for minimalist or tropical-style sauna experiences.
Sauna Whisking Benefits
Sauna whisking benefits go far beyond the surface.
While it may seem like a simple act of brushing the skin with leaves, it’s actually a multi-sensory wellness practice with both physical and mental advantages.
The gentle tapping and sweeping motions help stimulate blood circulation, promoting detoxification and faster muscle recovery. At the same time, the leaves lightly exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and opening pores to enhance the cleansing effects of the sauna.
The natural oils released from the branches — especially birch, eucalyptus, or herbal whisks — act as a form of aromatherapy, calming the nervous system and easing stress.
Many also report a sense of emotional grounding, as the practice connects them with nature and tradition. Altogether, sauna whisking enhances the sauna experience, making it not only more immersive but more therapeutic.
How to Make Your Own Sauna Whisk
How to make your own sauna whisk is easier than you might think.
First, pick fresh branches — early summer is the ideal time, when the leaves are still soft and full of essential oils. Trim them to a manageable length, remove any damaged leaves, and tie the bundle together tightly at the base.
You can use your whisk fresh or dry it to preserve it for later use.
Is It Safe?
Is it safe? For most people, yes.
Sauna whisking is a natural practice, but it’s important to use clean branches from known, non-toxic trees.
Avoid whisking if you have very sensitive skin, open wounds, or certain health conditions — and never use unidentified plants. As with any wellness activity, listen to your body and use common sense.
Give It a Try!
Give it a try because sauna whisking is a simple, natural, and deeply enjoyable way to elevate your sauna experience.
Whether you’re looking to relax, reconnect with nature, or explore traditions from Nordic cultures, this practice offers a gentle path to wellness.
You can try it at home or at a sauna spa — either way, it’s a refreshing ritual that your body and mind will thank you for.
