Alternating between sauna and cold has become a strong wellness trend in recent years, and this can be seen strongly in the content of influencers, for example. The phenomenon is not based on mere experientialism, but the interest is increasingly related to the body's recovery , resistance and overall well-being . In 2026, more and more people will be looking for ways to manage stress, improve the body's recovery and support everyday coping with natural means. The heat of the sauna and the sharpness of the cold form a combination that provides a strong but manageable stimulus for the body.
What is cold and heat exposure all about?
Sauna bathing has traditionally been associated with relaxation and socializing, but today it is also being examined from the perspective of physiological effects. The heat of the sauna dilates blood vessels , increases blood circulation and causes the body temperature to rise. At the same time, the heart rate increases and the body enters a state that resembles light exercise. Many people find that sauna bathing relieves muscle tension and speeds up recovery from physical exertion. Athletes in particular make strong use of this method as part of their routines.
Cold exposure provides a counterbalance to this. When the body is exposed to cold water or cool air, blood vessels constrict and the body quickly becomes activated . Cold stimulates the nervous system and can increase alertness. For many, the experience of cold is also mentally strengthening, as it requires a momentary tolerance of discomfort. It is the alternation of warm and cold that makes the experience particularly effective. The body's reactions vary rapidly, which exercises the circulatory system and nervous system.
In 2026, recovery solutions will be of particular interest to active athletes and people with a busy work life. Post-workout recovery has become a hot topic in both professional sports and fitness . Heat relaxes muscles and increases tissue metabolism, while cold can reduce swelling and relieve the feeling of strain. Together, these elements form a whole that many consider an effective way to support the body's recovery.
How can Sauna Menthol be utilized as part of this wellness trend?
The use of menthol in saunas has recently become popular, especially as part of this contrast experience. Menthol enhances the feeling of coolness on the skin and in the respiratory tract. It does not actually lower the temperature, but it changes the sensation, so that the body experiences warmth and freshness at the same time. This can increase the invigoration of the sauna experience and bring a new dimension to traditional sauna bathing. The fresh scent of menthol is often associated with easier breathing and a feeling of cleanliness, making it a popular addition to sauna routines.
The combination of sauna and cold is also of interest to those interested in biohacking and holistic health. Developing the body's stress tolerance has become a central theme in the wellness debate. Controlled exposure to temperature fluctuations is seen as a way to strengthen the body's adaptability. The idea is based on the fact that the body strengthens when faced with an appropriate amount of controlled stress. The heat of the sauna and the sharpness of the cold form a natural way to provide such a stimulus.
Sauna Menthol's new sauna scents have been introduced to the range to enhance and renew the traditional sauna experience. The new sauna scents Eucalyptus , Lemon and Lavender still bring the cool and opening effect of menthol, but also offer the senses a 100% natural ability to enhance the experience through scents. Each aromatized menthol crystal has its own effective elements from which the customer can choose the option that suits them and bring a special variety to everyday life.
What should you consider when exposed to extreme cold and heat?
However, safety is an important part of combining sauna and cold exposure. It is worth building up the experience gradually, especially if you are not familiar with cold exposure. It is good to listen to your body in the sauna and avoid too long sauna sessions. For cold exposure, quick but controlled exposure is often sufficient. Many people start with a short cool-down outside or a lukewarm shower before moving on to colder water. Sufficient hydration and calm recovery between rounds are essential for a safe experience. As for sauna scents, Sauna Menthol's menthol crystals are really strong and when using them in the sauna, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with their dosage and instructions for use .
How is sauna culture changing in 2026?
Sauna culture is also changing in a more experiential direction in the future. People want to build a holistic moment of relaxation from the sauna, combining sauna scents, lighting and various sauna rituals. Sauna scents such as menthol are part of this development, as they offer new sensory experiences and the opportunity to customize sauna bathing to your own preferences.
Alternating between sauna and cold is not just a trend, but for many it is becoming a regular wellness routine. The interest is based on the experience that combines relaxation, rejuvenation and supporting the body's natural functions. When traditional sauna culture meets modern wellness thinking, the combination is created that speaks to an increasingly wide range of people.
In 2026, the significance of the sauna will be even more diverse. It is not just a place for washing or relaxing, but part of a holistic approach to well-being. Elements such as cold exposure and menthol can be used to tailor the sauna experience to be individual and purposeful. This development shows that traditions can remain vibrant when applied to today's needs. Sauna bathing is no longer just a Finnish affair, but a growing international trend, where sauna scents play an increasingly important role.
