What is pirtis?
Pirtis is a Lithuanian type of sauna experience. It combines hot steam and wellness rituals like body whisking with leaf whisks. Pirtis uses natural products, and is commonly used not only to bathe, but also relax, rejuvenate, and help improve your health.
Lithuanian sauna (we call it pirtis) is a unique tradition, known for many centuries. First archeologically proven pirtis evidence dates back to XIV century, but linguistic and historical sources say that the history of Lithuanian pirtis may go back at least 2,000 or 3,000 years, and possible even further. It is a special way of bathing, which includes using steam, trees, herbs, and natural products, such as honey, clay, salt, fruits, berries, and more. Pirtis was seen as a place of physical, emotional and spiritual purification, initiations, healing, rituals, and community meetings.
Nowadays, pirtis is rising in popularity again, as a form of relaxation, celebration, having fun with friends, or a special experience, where you can reconnect with yourself. It can be individual or group process, but most often, you get a combination of both individual and group treatments.
Usually pirtis is a 3-4 hours process, which combines ancient knowledge, natural treatments and using a various plants and local organic products. The modern variation of pirtis is designed to be comfortable and rejuvenating for everyone who visits it.
Probably the most appealing technique you can try, is whisking (we call it vanojimas). It is a special phyto-thermo massage with various plants, such as birch, oak, maple, linden, and more. It can be gentle or rather intense, depending on the visitor’s preference, and gives you deep sense of physical and emotional relaxation.
The scenario of typical individual pirtis procedure:
Initial warm-up and introduction to procedure;
Special massage, using salt and other natural materials;
Professional whisking (15-25 min) adjusted to individual person;
Body scrub or massage.
The scenario of typical group pirtis procedure:
Initial upwarming and introduction to procedure;
Further warming and some aromatherapy;
Self-whisking or group whisking;
Skin treatment (usually with honey, fruits, clay or other natural products).
Lithuanian pirtis is a must-try experience for everyone visiting the country. It’s a wonderful way to explore Lithuania’s rich heritage, and connect with its nature – as well as yourself. We welcome you to join us: contact us, and we’ll arrange your adventure!