Bathissa

Bathissa is a term that refers to a particular style of bathing practiced in some cultures, particularly within the historical context of the Ottoman Empire. It is not a simple act of washing but often incorporates elements of ritual, social interaction, and therapeutic benefits. The practice is closely associated with the hammam, or Turkish bath, a public bathing house that served as a center for hygiene, relaxation, and social gathering.

The bathissa experience typically involves a sequence of steps. It begins with acclimatizing to the heat in a warm room, followed by a more intense session in a hot room where steam opens pores and relaxes muscles. Participants may then undergo a vigorous scrubbing with a coarse mitt, known as a kese, to exfoliate the skin. This is often followed by a soap massage and a rinsing with cool water.

Beyond its cleansing purpose, bathissa was a significant social ritual. Hammams were places where people could meet, converse, and conduct business. For women, they offered a rare opportunity for public assembly and communal activity. The steam and heat were also believed to have medicinal properties, aiding in the relief of aches and pains and promoting overall well-being. While the practice has evolved with modern hygiene standards and facilities, the essence of bathissa as a holistic approach to cleansing, relaxation, and social connection remains a notable aspect of cultural history.