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Vinum SPA
Aufguss: the magical sauna ritual
07 October 2022
Condividi
Have you ever heard anything about “Aufguss“? A real ritual of well-being that, enhancing the traditional benefits of sauna, helps to cleanse the body from toxins, uric acids and metabolic waste. An opportunity to rebalance body and mind, but also a moment of leisure.
A bit of history
The tradition of the Aufguss is native to Finland, where it takes the name of “Löyly”: here the sauna has a real social role, becoming synonymous of meeting, social aggregation and purification of body, mind and spirit. In fact, according to Nordic legends, doing the sauna helps to heal diseases, takes away the misfortune and relieves the amorous disappointments.
What is Aufguss?
The term “Aufguss” comes from German and literally means “steam jet“. Historically, steam jets were created with the aim of quickly regenerating the air inside the saunas, closed spaces within which people undergo intense sweating. Initially the movements were primitive and purely functional to re-oxygenate the sauna with fresh and clean air, but with time they have become increasingly scenic and elaborate, making the Aufguss a real ceremony.
How does it take place?
The Aufgussmeister – this is how is called the sauna master, pours some ice balls with aromatic or balsamic essences on the hot stones of the stove located inside the sauna. Then, with towel strokes, he creates very hot and humid air turbulence that, with refined gestures, directs towards the guests. Due to increased sweating and dilation of peripheral blood vessels, guests are so able to expel toxins more easily, obtaining physical and mental benefits.
The ceremony consists of three phases, each one lasting between seven and twelve minutes: it starts with soft movements and light waves of heat, then moves on to more energetic movements and increasingly intense steam jets.
As soon as the Aufguss ends it is essential to wet the body with cold water, starting from the extremities and continuing to the heart, to gradually stimulate the circulation, thus giving an immediate feeling of vitality and lower the heartbeat. An essential step is to replenish liquids by drinking some water, tea or infusions.
Originally the ritual of the Aufguss took place in religious silence; it is only recently that accompanying music has been introduced.
As for the traditional sauna there is only one imperative: clothes – or worse the swim suit! – are not allowed. In fact, with the high temperatures, fibres of which synthetic tissues are composed could emit toxic substances for the skin and body. That is why it is advisable to use a cotton towel.
Why to do Aufguss?
Aufguss is a ritual with countless benefits: firstly, thanks to the soothing and emollient effect of the hot air, it promotes the relaxation of the bronchus, the improvement of the lymphatic system and the strengthening of the immune system, becoming a valuable ally especially during the cold season. Secondly, it makes us more beautiful: it purifies the pores, makes the skin more elastic and radiant, and reduces acne, cellulite and skin imperfections.
Finally, in addition to being a cure-all for menstrual or rheumatic pain, it relaxes nerves and supports the central nervous system.
Where can you do the Aufguss?
For sauna enthusiasts the Aufguss is a magical moment. However, if lived in a place outside the ordinary, it can still take on even more special features: so why not the Vinum SPA at Castello di Spessa?
An oasis of peace in the heart of Collio where everything draws grapes and wine, in a continuum with the surrounding landscape, dotted with vineyards, paths, woods, on which stands a fairy tale castle. An intimate setting with two large and bright relaxation rooms, a Finnish sauna with tiled stove, hammam, panoramic pool with whirlpool, Kneipp path with Soča stones and much more.
Keep an eye on our social media and blogs and discover the special dates on which we will have the honor of hosting one of the greatest sauna masters in Europe, Antonio Falcone, that with its skilful towel strokes will be able to give you a real work of art of wellness!
Curious to try the magical ritual of the Aufguss?
CONTACT US
CASTELLO DI SPESSA GOLF WINE RESORT & SPA
Room Reservation, Guided Tours and Tastings
Via Spessa, 1 – 34070 Capriva Del Friuli (Go)
T. +39 0481 808124
Vinum Spa
Via Spessa, 1 – 34070 Capriva Del Friuli (Go)
T. +39 0481 808033
Every day from 10.00 am to 8.00 pm
Closed on Tuesdays
