If you are new to sauna culture you may have heard the word Aufguss whispered with a mix of awe and curiosity. This German tradition has become a bit of a sensation in recent years and is slowly making its way into spas and saunas across Europe. But what exactly is Aufguss and why are so many people raving about it. Let us take a tour of sauna rituals from around the world and see how Scotland is joining in on the fun with a surge of interest in all things hot and steamy.
The Aufguss Experience
Aufguss literally means infusion in German. The ritual begins with a sauna master pouring scented water or ice balls onto the hot stones of the sauna heater. This creates a powerful burst of steam which is then circulated around the room using a towel or fan. The master will wave and swirl the towel in dramatic flourishes, sending waves of hot air over the bathers. It is part performance, part wellness ritual and completely unforgettable.
What is Aufguss?
During an Aufguss session essential oils like eucalyptus, citrus or pine are used to create a multi sensory experience. The heat intensifies, the scents fill the room and participants are often guided through breathing exercises or moments of quiet reflection. Some Aufguss sessions are energising, others are calming, and some are even paired with music or light shows in larger spas.
Other Sauna Traditions Around the World
Saunas have been part of global culture for centuries and different countries have their own unique spins on the ritual. In Finland, the birthplace of the modern sauna, it is common to pour water over the stones for löyly, the gentle steam that makes every session feel complete. In Russia, the banya experience often includes a venik, a bundle of leafy birch twigs used to gently slap the skin and boost circulation. In Japan, the tradition of sento and onsen focuses on communal bathing in hot water springs, though many places now combine this with sauna facilities. Even Native American sweat lodges have similarities, using heat and ritual to cleanse body and mind.
Aufguss is just one example of how sauna culture continues to evolve. What started as a German tradition has spread across Europe and is now recognised internationally as a form of wellness theatre. It shows that saunas are not just about sitting quietly in the heat. They can also be about shared experience, performance and ritual.
The Rise of Sauna Culture in Scotland
Not long ago, saunas in Scotland were mostly tucked away in gyms or swimming pools. Fast forward to today and they are becoming part of everyday life for more and more people. Outdoor barrel saunas are popping up in gardens across the country. Mobile saunas on beaches and loch shores are drawing crowds. Luxury Monarch saunas and cube saunas are finding homes in hotels, lodges and even Airbnbs. It seems Scotland has caught the sauna bug and we are not letting go.
Part of this growth is thanks to a wider focus on health and wellbeing. People are looking for ways to manage stress, boost fitness recovery and improve sleep. Saunas tick all the boxes. They are also sociable, whether that means inviting friends round for a garden session or booking a mobile sauna with a group after a cold water swim. The recent trend for wild swimming has paired beautifully with sauna use too. What could be better than a cold dook in a loch followed by the warmth of a sauna.
Why Scotland Loves the Heat
There are plenty of reasons why saunas make sense in Scotland. Our climate practically begs for a warm retreat after a day in the hills or on the water. Outdoor saunas fit perfectly into the landscape whether that is a rustic barrel sauna overlooking the glens or a sleek cube sauna beside a modern house. The social aspect also resonates with Scottish hospitality. Sharing stories while steam swirls around you feels both ancient and very modern at the same time.
Businesses have noticed too. Country lodges, caravan parks and holiday cottages are adding saunas to attract guests. Mobile saunas on trailers can be driven to events and festivals. Hotels are enhancing their spa facilities with Monarch saunas that offer space, light and luxury. What was once seen as a Scandinavian niche has now found a firm place in Scottish life.
Bringing Aufguss to Your Garden
You do not need to travel to Germany to experience Aufguss. With the right setup at home you can create your own version. Start with a high quality heater, whether it is a wood burner from Harvia or a modern electric model from Huum. Add a bucket of water infused with a few drops of sauna safe essential oil. When you are ready, pour the water onto the stones to release a burst of steam. Use a towel to waft the steam around and you have the essence of Aufguss right there in your garden.
If you want to go further, you could host a themed sauna evening with friends. Choose music, lighting and scents that match the mood you are aiming for. It is not about being an expert sauna master, it is about enjoying the tradition and making it your own.
Choosing the Right Sauna for Your Rituals
At Scottish Saunas we supply a range of models that suit different styles and spaces. Our barrel saunas are compact, efficient and full of rustic charm. Our cube saunas offer a modern aesthetic with clean lines and bright interiors. Our Monarch saunas bring spa like luxury with glass panels and generous space. And our mobile barrel saunas on trailers add flexibility, perfect for businesses or anyone who wants to take their sauna experience on the road.
All of them can be used for simple relaxation or for rituals like Aufguss. What matters most is finding the model that fits your lifestyle and your space. Whether you want to recreate German steam theatre or simply enjoy the classic Finnish approach, there is a sauna to match.
Saunas for Today and Tomorrow
The beauty of sauna culture is that it keeps evolving. Aufguss is one example of how traditions adapt and spread. In Scotland, we are taking inspiration from around the world while making the sauna part of our own lifestyle. From quiet evenings in a garden barrel sauna to lively sessions in mobile units by the beach, saunas are becoming part of who we are. And with so many benefits to body and mind, it looks like the trend is here to stay.
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