The Banya Ritual and Birch Whisks (Witki)
The Russian and Eastern European “banya” is one of the oldest forms of heat therapy. It combines steam, herbal aromas, and a symbolic birch-whisk ritual called parenie. Unlike the dry Finnish sauna, the banya uses moist heat generated by pouring water over hot stones to create an intense steam cloud rich in essential oils from birch leaves. The aroma is amazing!
The Birch Whisk Tradition
The witki—bundles of fresh or dried birch, oak, or eucalyptus branches—are soaked in warm water and used to gently brush or pat the skin. Far from punishment, this rhythmic movement stimulates blood circulation, exfoliates the skin, and releases a pleasant natural scent that aids breathing. The micro-massage also helps lymph flow, removing toxins through sweat.
A Ritual of Purification
In traditional culture, the banya is both physical and spiritual cleansing. It symbolises renewal—leaving behind fatigue, stress, and negativity. Many describe the feeling afterwards as “lightness” or “rebirth”, which science now links to endorphin release triggered by heat and oxygenated blood flow.
How to Experience It Safely
Always hydrate before entering, spend short intervals (5–10 minutes) in the steam, and cool down gradually. Our sessions are always lead by a top, experienced sauna master, using freshly made birch (or other tree) whisks (witki) – and the technique remains both gentle and energetic and deeply relaxing.
At Emerald Spa, we honour this ancient art with modern hygiene and professionalism—transforming an old-world tradition into a mindful, revitalising experience for the body and mind. You really have to experience this with us, if you’ve never done it before!
