{"id":15605,"date":"2022-06-01T15:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-06-01T19:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.renthop.com\/content-manager\/?p=15605"},"modified":"2022-06-01T15:01:29","modified_gmt":"2022-06-01T19:01:29","slug":"russian-turkish-bath-experience","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.renthop.com\/blog\/russian-turkish-bath-experience\/","title":{"rendered":"Russian\/Turkish Bath Experience"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n

As New York City<\/a> slowly shifts to spring weather, there\u2019s still the occasional lingering winter chill that might have you wanting warmer environments. And what\u2019s hotter and more comfortable than a day at the sauna? While NYC is home to many spa and sauna experiences, it\u2019s also home to an abundance of spas and saunas to spend a day off at. In particular, there are many Russian and Turkish bath experiences for residents and tourists.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Finnish vs Russian vs Turkish-Style Saunas<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

What are the differences between a Finnish sauna versus a Russian sauna versus a Turkish sauna? A Finnish sauna is the most common type of sauna you can find in rec centers and even gyms. It\u2019s a bath that produces both dry and damp air at the same time. The high heat and low humidity create an environment where the body is allowed to sweat out naturally. The humidity can be regulated by throwing water onto hot rocks.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

A Russian sauna, traditionally known as a Banya is very similar to the Finnish sauna, but there is a higher level of humidity. The increased humidity can make a Banya feel more natural, with less aggressive heat. Traditional Banyas usually have what is called a venik massage. A venik is a fragrant bundle of moistened leafy birch, oak, eucalyptus, or juniper twigs and it\u2019s used to warm up the body. The massage is light-hitting that is supposed to improve blood circulation, help with muscle and joint pain, and improve lung ventilation. The leaves usually can contain essential oils and with the surrounding heat of the Banya, it is a way of natural healing.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Finally, a Turkish bath, traditionally known as a Hammam, is essentially a steam bath. The temperatures are much lower than in a sauna or Banya, but the humidity levels are way higher. Because of the high humidity, the flooring is usually tiled rather than wooden to prevent rot. It\u2019s often associated with the similarities of an ancient Roman bath. A Hammam bath can help with detoxification, circulation, and muscle tension. It\u2019s an environment to relax and socialize with new and old friends.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Here are a few spas and saunas in NYC where you can get the chance to experience a Banya or Hammam, or both!<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

1. Russian and Turkish Baths | East Village<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

This 130-year old bathhouse<\/a> is the oldest sauna\/bathhouse in the city, having opened its doors in 1892. You can find old regulars, the curious passerby, and even celebrities at this spot. Until a few years ago, this place was informally a men\u2019s club, but a 2016 NYT article<\/a> has shown that the bathhouse also attracts younger crowds now. The bathhouse is still owned by separate owners and whichever pass you buy, can only be used during that owner\u2019s shift. The bathhouse features five saunas and steam rooms, a cold plunge pool, a roof deck, and a restaurant. They also have services like massages and treatments.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

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