Birch or oak: why do we choose the birch?

In our space, we treat every tradition with great care. A broom is not just an accessory, but the main tool of the steam room attendant and the key to the right mood. We chose birch as the main material for steaming, and this decision has deep roots. But we are always ready to offer an alternative — at your request.

Since time immemorial, in Russia, people have used birch brooms for steaming. And it’s not just about the availability of the wood. Birch is a symbol of purity and renewal. Since ancient times, its branches have been collected on specific lunar days, dried in a special way, and preserved as a family heirloom.

Why does the birch remain a favorite even today?

Smell. When steamed, birch leaves release a delicate, slightly sweet, resinous scent that evokes memories of summer, the forest, and home. This aroma has a gentle effect on the nervous system, calming and promoting relaxation.

Breath. Thanks to the porous structure of the leaf and the presence of essential oils (betulene, carotene, tannins), birch steam helps to open up the bronchi and lungs. It’s easy and free to breathe — exactly what you need after exposure to urban smog.

Skin. A birch broom gives a soft, gentle warmth. It doesn’t scratch, but rather feels like a caress, improving microcirculation and giving the skin a velvety texture and a healthy glow.

In our spaces “Karelia” and “Altai,” we use handmade birch brooms collected in ecologically clean regions. It is important for us to preserve the spirit of the Russian bathhouse. This is not just a nod to fashion, but a conscious adherence to the age‑old experience of our ancestors. After all, the birch has long been considered a talisman, a protector against diseases, and a “bathhouse healer.” By using a birch broom, you touch upon a tradition that has endured for centuries.

But we understand that everyone’s tastes and needs are different. That’s why we never impose — we offer.

If for some reason the birch broom doesn’t suit you or you simply want to try something different, we will be happy to replace it with an oak one. Just inform the administrator before the procedure begins.

What’s so good about an oak broom?

It is denser and more resilient, containing tannins that have an anti‑inflammatory effect and are beneficial for diseases of the joints and skin.

Its aroma is tart and rich, with a hint of bitterness — it invigorates and tones.

Choosing between birch and oak is a choice between softness and strength, between calmness and vitality. We are ready to adapt to your request, because for us the main thing is your pleasure and benefit.

How to make a choice?

If you’re unsure which broom to choose, our experts will always give you advice. They’ll take into account your well‑being, mood, and preferences.

Remember: the right broom is half the success in the sauna. And we create all the conditions to make this success absolute.

We’re looking forward to having you as our guest. May the steam be light!

05.10.2026