Banya rituals at Meri Sauna: Cossack ritual, Tsar ritual & women’s days
In addition to classic sauna sessions, at Meri Sauna we offer something rarely found in Germany: rituals inspired by the Russian banya. Birch branches, tea from a samovar, and an afternoon spent together in a small group – here we introduce you to our rituals.
What is a banya?
The banya is the traditional Russian sauna. It is characterized by moist heat, infusions (aufguss), and beating with veniks – bundles of birch branches that are gently waved and tapped over the body during the infusion. This is followed by cooling down, and finishing off with tea and something savory.
Our rituals
Cossack Ritual
The classic banya experience: vodka upon arrival, an invigorating opening infusion, an infusion with veniks, and finally a honey-salt scrub. Afterward, there is tea from the samovar as well as borscht, bread, and lard.
Tsar Ritual
The festive version, inspired by the bathing habits of the tsars. In addition to the Cossack ritual process, this includes salmon with caviar, freshly baked bread, pelmeni with sour cream, and sheet cake. The relaxation house is yours alone for the day.
Gossip Girls Day
A social ritual for women who want to relax together: Prosecco upon arrival, mild temperatures, fragrant infusions, a lavender scrub, a face mask, tea from the samovar, and plenty of time to talk and laugh – also with your own private relaxation house.
Women’s Wellness Day
The short version lasting one hour: sparkling wine or fruit juice upon arrival, a sauna session with an infusion, a foot bath, a face mask, a lavender scrub, and fresh fruit with canapés.
How to book a ritual
The rituals take place on Tuesdays and Fridays, for groups of four or more, and last between 60 and 120 minutes depending on the ritual. The standard sauna admission fee is added to this. For special occasions, you can also book our relaxation house exclusively for up to eight people. You can find current prices and booking availability at meri-sauna.de/rituale.
Ideas for your ritual day
- Group gifts: A ritual makes a wonderful group gift for a birthday or bachelorette party – vouchers are available directly at Meri Sauna.
- The scrub feeling at home: If you're craving more after the ritual, you can find salt and body scrubs for a ritual in your own shower in our care products section.
- Dressed for the occasion: A lightweight bathrobe or a hammam towel to wrap yourself in makes the breaks between infusions even cozier.
Personally written by Martin – founder of BeachAndSteam and a sauna operator at Kulkwitzer See for over 18 years.