teettiä

Teettiä is a traditional Finnish sauna practice that involves pouring cold water, typically from a bucket or a special wooden ladle called a *kauha*, over the hot sauna stones or onto the hot surfaces of the sauna. This action creates a burst of steam and a sudden drop in temperature, which is believed to enhance the sauna experience by increasing circulation, cleansing the body, and invigorating the senses. The practice is deeply rooted in Finnish culture and is often associated with relaxation, socializing, and even spiritual cleansing.

The word *teettiä* comes from the Finnish verb *teetä*, meaning "to pour." The technique is commonly performed by the sauna master (*saunomies*), who may also use a *vihta*—a bundle of birch twigs—to gently strike the body before or after pouring the water. The contrast between the extreme heat of the sauna and the cold water is thought to strengthen the body’s resistance to illness and promote overall well-being.

Teettiä is not only a physical ritual but also a communal one, often shared among friends or family. It is customary to pour water in a rhythmic or symbolic manner, sometimes accompanied by laughter or conversation. While modern saunas may use electric heaters, the tradition of teettiä remains popular in traditional wood-fired saunas (*pohjoissauna*), where the heat is generated by burning wood or birch logs.

Beyond its physical benefits, teettiä is also tied to Finland’s natural environment and seasonal rhythms. In winter, the practice is particularly enjoyed as the contrast between the sauna’s heat and the freezing outdoors is more pronounced. Today, teettiä continues to be a cherished part of Finnish sauna culture, reflecting both its practical and symbolic significance in everyday life.