Yassir,
A N.A.S.L. is indeed, as you state, a type of sauna. I have likewise encountered the tradition of WOOD-FUELLED (emphasis) 'Saunas' (Finnish word) in Poland, Russia, Lithuania... although in recent years they have become markedly less widespread. I do not have any information regarding Germanic or Celtic countries. They are, in my opinion a fantastic way of cleansing the body of toxins and reinvigorating the spirit. The difference between the N.A.S.L. and 'Sauna' type is that the latter is situated in a log cabin, and birch branches are used to beat the body to encourage blood circuation, whereas the former takes place inside a bender-frame dome covered with blankets. Both rely on the principle of heating stones (ideally volcanic) in a fire, and then splashing water over. There is perhaps more ritual to the former, although what may have existed in Europe prior to the conquest of Xianity will most probably been lost.
As for how I found out about this site during the proceedings, whilst the stones were heating the participants were able to converse. This lodge takes place at Braziers Park, where I understand a Bushmoot has taken place.
I live not far from Richmond Park, i.e. in SW London. PM or email if you might be interested in meeting.
I hope that answers your questions...
rich59 said:
Hi,
I have a question or two for you Ormr:-
Is a Native American sweat lodge a type of suana? And, how would you encounter a bushcraftuk site in a sweat lodge?
Which part of Londinium are you from (being from thos parts myself)?