The documentary “Smoke Sauna Sisterhood,” directed by Estonian director Anna Hints, is a compelling examination of the female perspective. The video, which was released in 2023, offers spectators an immersive experience within a traditional wood-fired smoke sauna located in the rural region of Estonia. The documentary film, under the direction of Anna Hints in her inaugural venture as a filmmaker, serves as a tribute to the profound influence of a long-standing tradition profoundly ingrained within Estonian society. This work explores the unfiltered personal stories that constitute the feminine experience, encompassing a wide range of subjects including childhood experiences, abortion, sexuality, domestic violence, sexual assault, and cancer.
As the camera navigates the obscurity within the smoke sauna, the viewers are granted access to the personal dialogues of a collective of women, wherein they divulge their most profound confidences and encounters. The documentary adeptly portrays the intrinsic nature of a rite that transcends mere physical cleaning, instead embodying a collective endeavor aimed at purging the soul. In the context of the documentary “Smoke Sauna Sisterhood” the term “smoke sauna” refers to a traditional sauna experience so what is it? Today tvacute discusses this topic with you.
What is ‘Smoke Sauna’?
The term “Smoke Sauna” refers to a customary sauna encounter in rural Estonia in the documentary “Smoke Sauna Sisterhood”. It represents more than simply a geographical location; it transforms into a cultural and emotional haven where women congregate to talk about their most private secrets and life experiences. The smoke sauna’s relevance in the film extends beyond its traditional use as a place of body purification. It represents a social phenomenon where women are free to express themselves without fear of rejection or embarrassment. The word captures the special ambiance that the sauna’s fire, water, steam, and smoke generate. It is a life-changing opportunity for women to recover, shed shame, and establish meaningful emotional connections in a supportive, judgment-free community.
“smoke sauna” denotes a conventional sauna design characterized by the absence of a chimney. The presence of this characteristic attribute leads to the accumulation of smoke within the enclosed space when wood is combusted. In the context of the Vana-Võromaa region in Estonia, this phenomenon is not solely a vestige of the past but rather an integral aspect of the daily existence of its residents. The sauna ritual holds significant cultural significance, permeating the everyday routines of individuals across various age groups and genders. It serves as a unifying element, fostering strong familial and social bonds among families and friends. The cleaning procedure is conducted within a serene sanctuary, which serves as a conducive environment for introspection and deep thought.
The acknowledgment by UNESCO serves to underscore the significance of this tradition in safeguarding and conserving cultural assets. The historical significance of the smoke sauna is enhanced by its roots in Finland, where a comparable tradition has been widespread since 7000 BC. Despite its ancient origins, the aforementioned process continues to maintain its relevance, as seen by a notable resurgence in construction activities observed in recent years. The continuous survival of smoke saunas in Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania can be attributed to their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and longevity.
The origins of the sauna can be traced back to ancient times.
The history of the sauna in Finland is lengthy and a little elusive. Finnish saunas have been around since 7000 BC and were essential for many elements of life, including birthing and hygiene. As bathhouses faced destruction during the Reformation, the sauna culture spread throughout Scandinavia and eventually to other parts of Europe. The sauna’s enduring appeal was aided by its adaptability as a dining area, lounge place, and sterile birthing environment.
In Finland, there has never been a problem finding wood to build saunas and heat them, unlike in more crowded parts of Europe. Beyond being warm, the sauna is also very popular in the summer and the winter. The longevity of the sauna culture is rooted on its capacity to adjust to different facets of everyday existence..
How Does Smoke Sauna Work?
The distinctive design of the savusauna, or smoke sauna, makes it stand out. Its absence of a chimney allows the smoke from burning wood to pervade the chamber, unlike traditional saunas. The fire is put out and the sauna is aired until it reaches the proper temperature, keeping enough heat inside for the duration of use. Because they are easy to use, affordable, and long-lasting—as long as fire safety precautions are taken during construction—smoke saunas are still popular despite the work and time needed to heat them.
The use of a wood pellet burner to heat the smoke sauna stove is a noteworthy feature that improves the purity of the burning process and lessens the intensity of the smoke aroma. Smoke saunas have been around for a long time because of their ability to disinfect, which makes them both a practical and traditional option.
As per Anna Hints, the filmmaker of the film “Smoke Sauna Sisterhood,” the smoke sauna holds significance beyond its physical attributes, serving as a cultural and emotional refuge. Hints derive inspiration from her Võro grandmother, who not only transmitted the cultural legacy, traditional chants, and accumulated wisdom but also instilled in her a deep appreciation for the fundamental significance of smoke sauna culture. The documentary film, which received accolades at the Sundance Film Festival and has been selected as Estonia’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2024 Academy Awards, offers a profound exploration of the human experience as it pertains to the female form.
Hints underscore the significance of the smoke sauna as a location where women have traditionally engaged in activities like childbirth, post-mortem cleansing, and therapeutic practices. Within the secluded confines of the smoke sauna, ladies are afforded the opportunity to freely express their emotions and recount their own experiences, devoid of any critical evaluation or feelings of embarrassment. The core of the documentary is effectively captured, enabling each voice to freely express themselves, regardless of the severity or embarrassment of the event.
The film “Smoke Sauna Sisterhood” represents a notable accomplishment in the realm of cinema, as it not only delves into the examination of a distinctive cultural practice but also succeeds in revealing the shared narratives of women that transcend cultural boundaries. The camera effectively documents the range of emotions experienced within the smoke sauna, including laughter, tears, and moments of consolation. This immersive portrayal invites the audience to engage with a shared experience among women, regardless of their unique narratives.
Within the confines of the smoking sauna, Hints establishes an environment when women are afforded the opportunity to embrace their vulnerability, openly express their personal truths, and derive empowerment from their shared encounters. The documentary, with a duration of 90 minutes, exhibits a concentrated exploration of a specific area inside Estonia, thereby establishing a resonance that extends beyond national boundaries. This statement serves as a poignant reminder that the lived experience of women, with both its struggles and successes, is a story that should not be avoided but rather embraced. “Smoke Sauna Sisterhood” encompasses more than a mere cultural practice, as it serves as a commemoration of the feminine physique, femininity, and the collective human encounter.
