One of the most exciting wellness treatments I have had in recent years, Banya, a traditional Russian health and healing practice, is gaining popularity and a promising future of hot and cold therapy. The experience is not only fun, relaxing and eye-opening but also full of warmth and tradition. Personally, it’s been a delightful journey, expanding my understanding of sauna culture and leaving me with a deeper appreciation for its rich heritage.

So, What Is Banya?

As a Russian proverb says, “Banya is like a second mother,” reflecting its special cultural significance. Much like yoga, Banya is both a physical and spiritual practice, used for cleansing and purification. It’s a ritual that unites the four elements—fire, water, air, and earth—believed to ward off evil spirits and restore balance and health. The roots of Banya can be traced back to the Slavic tribes, who believed in the power of fire and water. It’s mentioned as early as the 11th century in the Russian Primary Chronicle. Historically, banyas played key roles in life events, from childbirth to death rituals, and have been featured in Russian art, folklore, and film, making them a vital part of Russian culture that persists to this day.

My Banya Experience at Amanpuri, Phuket

This article exclusively brings you a glimpse into the world of Banya at Amanpuri, world-renowned luxurious holistic wellness resort. Nestled in a private hydrotherapy facility overlooking the tranquil waters of Bangtao Bay in the Andaman Sea, my Banya treatment began. I was greeted by Andrei Kuimov, the banchik (Banya master and healer), who, with a playful yet knowing smile, asked, “Have you got three hours for this today?” For Russians, spending hours in the Banya is common, but I graciously opted to respond, “An hour with heat will do for today, please.” After offering me water to stay hydrated, Andrei led me to the first stage of the ritual.

Amanpuri, Phuket

As I stepped into the warm wooden room, I was immediately enveloped by the invigorating scent of mint and citrus, a fragrance released by eucalyptus branches placed in the corner. At Amanpuri, the sauna room was lined with Himalayan salt panels to enhance the therapeutic benefits. I have usually sat in a sauna, this time though I stretched out on a wooden bench, and again first time wearing a hat in a sauna - a stylish necessity to protect my head, ears and hair from overheating.

The Banchick

Andrei poured water over hot coals and with a big fan in his hand, he made sure the heat distributed evenly in the room. The temperature rose. Surprisingly, despite the heat, it was comfortable—the balance of dry air and moisture made it bearable. For ten minutes, I sweated profusely, but this was just the warm-up!

Lying down on a bench wearing a felt hat with a hand fan in Sauna

After a quick, refreshing shower, my skin tingled with relief and my blood vessels were dancing. I returned to the Banya for round two, where relaxing music played in the background. This time, I lay on my stomach, my head and face covered with eucalyptus veniks (bundles of twigs) soaked in ice-cold water while oak veniks were using to massage my body. The rhythmic tapping of the leaves was invigorating, stimulating my muscles and skin. This process is called ‘perienia’ and is absolutely my favorite part. The heat, the herbal aroma, the felt hat, the eucalyptus pillow, the oak branch massage, the sound—it was a sensory delight!

perienia

Then came the moment of truth—a plunge into an ice-cold pool! Initially intimidating but once I submerged myself three times, I felt totally refreshed. The cold sharpened my focus, numbed my worries and all stress froze up.

The final stage of this blissful treatment was floating, which let me drift into a meditative state—like savasana in yoga, but in water. No thoughts, no sounds, no sights, no distractions, just complete serenity. I left feeling weightless, balanced, and utterly at peace.

Floatation - Savasana in Banya

It’s natural to say I’m in love with this unique treatment. Amanpuri’s Banya let me embark on a timeless journey and embrace both ancient wisdom and modernity, showing me how wellness can evolve across time and cultures. While experiencing the modern indulgence, it connected me with the heritage and history of health and healing. This experience truly depended my awareness for sauna and its cultural variations.

How Did Banya Find Its Way to Phuket?

Phuket has seen a growing Russian community in the last few years due to geopolitical factors. With 1.4 million Russians visiting Thailand in 2023, they’ve become a significant cultural influence on the island. Banya is one of the many contributions they’ve brought, adding variety and new layers offering to Thai spa menus.

As Thailand positions Phuket as a global health hub, Banya is seamlessly integrating into the wellness landscape, complementing medical tourism and traditional Thai spa practices. This ancient Russian ritual is not only here to stay but is flourishing in its new tropical home.