Letter 3 - The Art of Sauna in Oslo

Dear you,

In this letter, I wanted to share something very special : my discovery of the art of sauna in Norway.

It’s now been five Fridays that I’ve gone to the Oslo sauna, the one right by the Munch Museum. There are several across the city, but this one called to me. Probably because it’s so close to the fjord.

At first, I wasn’t that drawn to the idea of sauna itself… but the thought of swimming in the fjord (one of my greatest joys) was enough to convince me.

My first experience was this summer. I didn’t really know what to expect. I had no idea there was a whole art and ritual behind it but I immediately felt something special.

People were talking and laughing and of course, I loved swimming in the fjord, surrounded by jellyfish (mostly the friendly white ones).

A little fun fact : there are two types of jellyfish in the Oslo fjord : the tiny white ones (harmless) and the big orange ones (the ones to avoid !). In summer, there’s this lovely sense of solidarity : if someone spots a jellyfish nearby, they’ll shout from the pier : “Go right! No, left! Okay, straight ,you’re safe!” It turns into a kind of aquatic Mario Kart.

The second time was just as wonderful. The water was colder, sharper, and it felt incredible. We tried different types of saunas, some electric others wood-fired and one man brought his own essential oils, which made the experience even more soothing.

But it was the third time that truly changed everything.That day, I went with a true Oslo local who explained all the rituals behind the Norwegian sauna culture. I stayed in the same sauna for nearly 90 minutes, talking with the eight or so people inside.

They shared so many little details, like not pouring too much water on the stones (apparently it can burn the inside of your ears !), wearing a small hat to protect your head from the heat or not swimming in the fjord right after the rain (some mysterious drainage story… I didn’t ask).

The water that day was freezing, around 8–10°C. I wasn’t sure I’d be brave enough to go in… but my dear colleague didn’t give me much choice. And honestly, what an experience ! That first plunge into icy water right after the sauna was overwhelming, cold and warm at the same time, followed by this deep sense of calm.

I think I fell in love with that feeling.

And that night, I slept better than I had in months.

People say it’s great for your health, I can’t confirm that but one thing is certain: ever since that day, I can’t wait to go back again and again.

So, to everyone who’ll come visit me in Oslo, I promise : whether it’s summer or winter, we’ll go together. 🌿

Warmly,

Camille