Finnish Sauna 1940

In 1940, LIFE photographer Carl Mydans captured a striking image of Finnish soldier enjoying a sauna during World War II, showcasing a moment of cultural resilience amid the conflict.

For Finnish soldiers, the sauna was more than just a place for cleansing; it was a vital tradition that offered a sense of normalcy, relief, and mental rejuvenation even in the midst of war. The sauna experience, deeply rooted in Finnish culture, provided not only physical warmth during harsh winter conditions but also a spiritual reprieve from the struggles of military life. Mydans’ photograph highlights the soldiers’ determination to maintain cultural practices, reflecting the enduring human spirit in times of adversity.