Verkkokannelasti

Verkkokannelasti is a type of traditional Finnish sauna culture in which the sauna is heated without the use of electricity. Instead, the sauna is heated traditionally by pouring water on hot stones or by lighting a wood fire in a network of canals under the sauna platform.

The name "verkkokannelasti" translates to "network of canals" in Finnish, referring to the complex system of canals that deliver hot water and steam to the sauna. This method of heating the sauna has been used for centuries in Finland and is still popular today among enthusiasts of traditional sauna culture.

To heat the sauna using this method, hot stones are placed in a specially constructed network of canals made of brick or stone. Water is then poured onto the stones, causing them to heat up and release steam. This steam is then directed into the sauna through a system of channels and can be controlled by the user to achieve the desired temperature.

Wood fires are also used in verkkokannelasti to heat the sauna. A fire is lit in a specially constructed brick or stone oven beneath the sauna platform, and the heat is distributed through a network of canals. This method is more labor-intensive than using electric heat, but is often preferred for its unique and traditional experience.

Verkkokannelasti is not only a way of heating the sauna but also a cultural phenomenon that reflects the importance of traditional sauna culture in Finnish society. It requires a great deal of expertise and skill to use effectively, but for those who are willing to learn the techniques involved, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.