U.P. Sauna Culture
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) is a unique place in this world. Known for being remote, having pure land and water, embracing frigid temperatures, and being home to warm hearted people with unique traditions. The tradition of enjoying a sauna as part of a lifestyle is one of those unique qualities that sets them apart.
Yoopers
The people of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula are called Yoopers. They are known for their unique accent, different foods, and way of life. Yoopers have a laid back lifestyle, focusing more on fun and relaxation instead of hustle culture. Things like spending the day on the slopes, taking a refreshing dip in crystal clear Lake Superior, or hiking through the secluded forests are on top of the list. One thing that sets Yoopers apart is the significance of taking a routine sauna with family and friends. Sauna’s are such an amazing way to relax and unwind. Splash some water on the stove and feel the steam as it envelopes your body and relaxes your mind.
Sauna’s Origins
Sauna’s, which is pronounced sow (rhymes with wow) and nuh, is the authentic way to pronounce the word. Saunas originated about 1000 years ago in Finland and are part of Finnish culture today along with the culture of many Finnish Americans. People of Finnish descent make up a majority of the population of the people who inhabit Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula. Ranging from Ironwood toward Houghton and Marquette a majority of the people are Finnish, Swedish, or Norwegian (of which sauna is popular in those countries too).
Healthy Living
Sauna is more than just a steam room. Similar to therapeutic ice baths, it’s a way of rejuvenating the body and mind. When done correctly, it can be an experience that turns into a way of life.
Many people alternate between taking a dip in Lake Superior or standing outside in the cold winter, then alternating back in the sauna. It’s a great experience. Going from one extreme to the other has a unique effect on the body.
The healing qualities are a result of cleaning out the toxins from your body in the form of sweat along with raising your heart rate as if you are exercising. Some study’s show that being in the sauna has a similar result to running. Having 4 or more saunas per week has the most positive effect.
A Fuller Experience – Wood Stoves
Sauna’s traditionally contain a wood stove for its heat source. Electric saunas are becoming increasingly popular due to their ease of use, however, they don’t come with the satisfaction of building and maintaining your own fire and having the authentic aroma of a wood fire. From someone who has had it both ways, the full experience of a wood burning stove is worth the effort.
Sauna’s Around Ironwood
To experience a sauna on your next Ironwood vacation here are some places to consider: