Aufguss is more than just water on hot stones. It is a sauna ritual with roots in Central Europe that combines scent, heat and presence - and today the tradition spreads to new sauna forms, such as Sauna Tent.
In this post we go through what Aufguss really is, why so many people love it, and how you can experience it even in a Sauna Tent.
History Aufguss?
The word Aufguss means "pouring out" in German and refers to the classic moment when water - often mixed with essential oils - is poured over hot sauna stones. The result is an intense steam pulse that raises the humidity and spreads scent throughout the sauna.
But Aufguss is more than just a technical step. In Germany and Austria, it has grown into a ritual and sometimes to pure performance. A sauna master (saunameists) leads the session, often with choreographed towel movements that spread the heat in waves over the sauna stoves. The scent, heat and rhythm make the experience something completely different from a regular sauna session.
There are different styles: Some focus on relaxation, others are more energizing. Common is that the session becomes a joint, guided trip in heat, steam and scent.
Why so many people love Aufgus
Aufguss combines the heat from the sauna with the relaxing effects of aromatherapy. When the pores are opened and the body sweats, a natural detox occurs. The heat is reinforced through the steam, and the scents - for example, eucalyptus, pine or citrus - affect both breathing and mood.
Many also feel that the social dimension gives something extra: sitting quietly in the heat together, led by a facilitator, creates a kind of community at the moment.
Is it possible to make aufgus in Sauna Tent?
Yes. And it often becomes an equally intense and beautiful experience - but with some differences compared to traditional saunas.
The largest restriction is the space. IN Sauna Tent There is not the same ceiling height or floor space as in large wooden sauce, which makes the large towel movements from classic Aufguss sessions more difficult to implement. But the experience of heat, steam and scent is there - and becomes almost even more enclosing because the volume is smaller.
Our larger model, Björk, is especially suitable for Aufguss. It holds 6–8 people comfortably and has enough surface to allow a facilitator to move and create the steam spread required. With the right wood, an efficient oven and good ventilation, the high humidity that makes Aufguss is quickly created so special.
International sessions in our Sauna Tent
Aufguss I. Sauna Tent Is not just an idea - it's already a reality. We have collaborations with partners in Germany, Denmark, Norway and the United Kingdom offering guided Aufguss sessions in Sauna Tent, Often as part of wellness events, retreats or sauna festivals.
In these sessions, 6–8 people get a seat, where a facilitator leads the participants through the ritual - with scents, steam pulses and quiet energy. Although the space is smaller than in a classic sauna, the effect is often strong, close and very personal.
Tips for those who want to try aufgus in a Sauna Tent
Choose a sauna with sufficient volume - preferably a larger model with good ventilation. Use high quality essential oils and pour a few drops into the water before turning on the stones. Work with heat pulses rather than large sweeps - even small hand movements can move steam effectively in one Sauna Tent.
Remember to give the body time. A good Aufguss session contains both intensity and breaks. The intimate room of the sauna tent often reinforces the tranquility of these transitions.
Summary
Aufguss is a living sauna ritual that combines heat, scent and community. It fits just as well in a sauna house as in one Sauna Tent - Although the experience is adapted to the smaller format. With the right model, proper wood and a sense of rhythm, the sauna tent can be a place for both relaxation and ceremony.
Do you want to experience aufgus in a Sauna Tent? Look out for our partners and events - or try for yourself, at home or in nature.
