The Aufguss Ritual: When the Sauna Becomes an Experience | Splash & Spa Tamaro

What is an Aufguss?

Aufguss is a wellness ritual during which the sauna master (Aufgussmeister) uses rhythmic towel movements to distribute hot, aromatic steam towards the guests, creating a multisensory experience.

According to Aufguss.it, the ritual involves pouring water, often mixed with essential oils, over the hot stones of the sauna heater. When the ice encounters the hot stones, it melts and evaporates, releasing the aromas of the essential oils.

The origins and history of Aufguss 

As reported by Aufguss.it, the Aufguss ritual originated in Finland. Its original purpose was to improve air circulation inside the sauna: since the sauna is a relatively small, enclosed space where people sweat heavily, regular air exchange is necessary. To speed up and optimise this process, water was poured over the sauna heater and a towel was waved to distribute the steam more effectively. Over time, essential oils were added to fragrance the environment, water was replaced with ice or snow, and more complex movements accompanied by music were introduced.

Gradually, this practice evolved into a rich ritual and a true multisensory wellness experience.

How does an Aufguss ritual work?

The Italian Sauna & Aufguss Association (AISA) provides clear guidelines on how an Aufguss ritual should be carried out correctly:

• The sauna door is left open for a few minutes before the ritual begins to encourage air exchange, while guests wait outside.
• Once the sauna master gives permission to enter, participants can take their seats inside the sauna. Each person should choose where to sit according to their experience and individual tolerance to heat. The lower benches have a lower perceived temperature and are therefore recommended for those experiencing an Aufguss ritual for the first time. On the upper benches, the heat is perceived more intensely. Throughout the ritual, for hygiene reasons, every part of the body should remain on the guest's personal towel.
• Once all guests are seated, the sauna master introduces themselves, explains how the Aufguss will take place (duration, rules and useful information) and presents the essential oils that will be used during the ritual.
• The actual ritual then begins. It generally consists of three cycles, with each cycle comprising a phase in which ice is placed on the sauna heater and a ventilation phase. During each cycle, humidity and perceived heat increase, gradually triggering different physical responses, such as an increased heart rate, increased sweating and stimulation of blood circulation.
• After the ritual, it is important to allow the body temperature to return to normal, drink plenty of fluids and, ideally, take some time to rest in a relaxation area.

The Role of the Sauna Master

The Sauna Master (Aufgussmeister) is the professional responsible for conducting the Aufguss ritual.

The role of the Sauna Master requires both technical and interpersonal skills.

Key technical skills:

• In-depth knowledge of how saunas work, the differences between different types of saunas and the effects sauna bathing can have on people, to recognize any signs of discomfort.
• Mastery of towel-waving techniques: professional knowledge of the movements used during the ritual to properly manage temperature and humidity.
• In-depth knowledge of essential oils, their properties and their correct use.
• Knowledge of first-aid procedures to respond appropriately in case of need.
• Knowledge and application of safety and hygiene rules.
• Creative skills: designing original and engaging rituals by combining essential oils, music and ventilation techniques.

Key interpersonal skills:

• Friendliness and professionalism when welcoming guests.
• Ability to communicate rules clearly and respectfully and ensure that they are followed.
• Empathy and sensitivity towards participants' needs, with the ability to adapt or personalize the ritual in case of specific requirements.
• Ability to create a harmonious and relaxing atmosphere.
• Strong observation skills to identify any signs of discomfort or fatigue.
• Passion for wellness and sauna culture.

Sauna Masters at Splash & Spa Tamaro

At Splash & Spa Tamaro, safety, professionalism and guest care are of fundamental importance.

For this reason, all our Sauna Masters hold the following qualifications:

• BLS-AED certification, renewed every two years and provided by instructors from Croce Verde Lugano. 
• Training in occupational health and safety. Splash & Spa Tamaro is certified for Quality, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety Management according to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018. More information about the certification.
• Internal training provided by Matthew Coccato, Safety Manager, who holds the following qualifications:
  • Level 1 and Level 2 Certificate in the use of essential oils in the sauna (Aromen).
  • Level 1 Smoke Ritual Certificate for the use of incense in the sauna (Aromen).
  • Certificate of participation in the “Best of Us” seminar, a course covering the complete creation of an Aufguss show and advanced movements (Aufguss.it) 
  • Continuing education and professional development courses.

The Role of Essential Oils

One of the distinctive elements of Aufguss is the use of essential oils, which help transform the ritual into a multisensory experience. Essential oils are mixed with ice. As the ice melts and evaporates, the oils release their aromatic properties, allowing the fragrance to spread throughout the sauna and be perceived by guests through breathing.

The choice of essential oil depends on the atmosphere the Sauna Master wants to create. Some of the most used essential oils and their characteristics:

• Lemon, Orange, Bergamot: fresh and citrusy.
• Eucalyptus, Mint, Tea Tree: refreshing and balsamic.
• Lavender: relaxing.
• Rosemary: invigorating.

The quality of the essential oils used is very important. Their purity, together with the expertise of the Sauna Master, is necessary to ensure a harmonious, balanced and safe experience.

For this reason, Splash & Spa Tamaro pays particular attention to the selection of its essences and has chosen to partner with Aromen.

Aromen is a Belgian company founded in 2012 with the aim of contributing to the development of the Aufguss discipline through the research, enhancement and development of completely natural aromas and essential oils for use in saunas. Today, the company works with numerous wellness centers worldwide and provides training for Aufguss Masters, equipping them with the knowledge required to conduct professional rituals using completely natural essential oils correctly.  

Continuing Education and Competitions: The Development of a Sauna Master

Aufguss has progressively evolved from a traditional practice into an increasingly complex and structured experience, combining ventilation techniques, essences and aromatic oils, music and show elements.

For Sauna Masters, continuing to train and exchange knowledge with other professionals is therefore essential.

This has led to the creation of structured competitions, which have now become key events in the industry.

• National Aufguss Championships are held in many countries and provide an opportunity to qualify for the World Championships. In Switzerland, the national championship, the Schweizer Aufguss Meisterschaft (SAM), is organized by the Schweizer Sauna Bund and includes individual and team competition. The winners of the two categories represent Switzerland at the World Championships. 
• The Aufguss World Masters is the most important international competition. Participants are evaluated by an international jury according to a series of detailed criteria, with each criterion assigned a score. These include towel-waving technique, heat distribution, safety, music selection and audience engagement. The complete judging catalogue is available on the Aufguss World Masters website.

The Sauna Masters at Splash & Spa Tamaro have also successfully taken part in national and international competitions:

• In 2018, our Sauna Masters team took 1st place at the National Championships, qualifying for the World Championships, where they achieved 18th place.
• Also in 2018, 3rd place was achieved in the individual National Championships.
• In 2025, 5th place was achieved at the National Championships.

The Aufguss Experience at Splash & Spa Tamaro – Pure Wellness in Ticino

At Splash & Spa Tamaro, Aufguss rituals are a central part of the wellness experience. The rituals take place every hour, with a total of 10 rituals per day, rotating between the different saunas and allowing guests to enjoy a variety of experiences. Throughout the day, guests can also experience the Smoke Ritual, a ritual that takes place inside the steam bath.

At Splash & Spa Tamaro, all Aufguss rituals are included in the admission ticket.

The Aufguss program changes seasonally, to always offer guests new experiences and can be viewed here.

Splash & Spa Tamaro: the ideal destination for your relaxing getaway in Ticino

At Splash & Spa Tamaro, Aufguss rituals are integrated into a complete wellness experience. Here, you can enjoy a wide range of experiences dedicated to the relaxation of body and mind:

• Hammam area with steam baths and a music pool
• Four themed saunas: Outdoor Sauna | 95°C Chestnut Sauna | 85°C Clay Sauna | 75°C Salt Sauna | 65°C
• Exclusive snow grotto
• Foot baths and Kneipp path
• Outdoor relaxation garden, where you can unwind on sunny days
• Outdoor iodised salt-water pool
• Outdoor cold plunge pool 
• Aromatic showers
• Bucket showers
• Two relaxation rooms, where you can unwind on comfortable loungers and enjoy a peaceful break in a relaxing and atmospheric setting
• A wide choice of relaxing massages, beauty treatments and exclusive wellness experiences

Discover the wellness world of Splash & Spa Tamaro here.