Bathing traditions vary widely across different cultures and time periods, reflecting unique social, religious, and personal beliefs about cleanliness, health, and spirituality. Here are a few examples of bathing traditions from around the world:

Japanese Onsen: In Japan, bathing is not just about cleanliness but is deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual practices. Onsen, or natural geothermal hot springs, are revered for their therapeutic properties and are popular destinations for relaxation and rejuvenation. Japan has 25,000 natural hot spring sources. Bathing in an Onsen is considered a sacred ritual, with specific etiquette and customs that need to be followed, it expected that you enter the Onsen thoroughly washed and cleansed and without swimwear. Traditionally an Onsen was a communal experience, men and women bathing together, however this has changed in modern times.

Turkish Hammam: The Turkish hammam, or public bathhouse, has been a central part of Turkish culture for centuries. Hammams are communal spaces where people gather to cleanse themselves, socialize, and relax. Before the invention of private plumbing, they served as a place of communal hygiene. The bathing process typically involves steam rooms, exfoliation, and massage, followed by relaxation in a cooling room.

Ayurvedic Bathing: Ayurveda, the ancient Indian holistic healing system, is centered on the belief that everyone falls into three spiritual categories: Kapha, Pitta, and Vata. Bringing an off-kilter dosha back into balance with a prescribed bath of varying herbs is the way of restoring mind, body, and spirit. The bath is filled with herbs and flowers, depending on what the body, spirit and mind require.

Scandinavian Sauna: Saunas have long been an integral part of Scandinavian culture, originating in Finland. The sauna experience involves heating a small room to high temperatures using a stove or heater, then relaxing and sweating in the heat.  Saunas are believed to have numerous health benefits and are often followed by a cold plunge or shower.

Roman Bathhouses: In ancient Rome, public bathhouses were elaborate structures where people gathered for bathing, socializing, and exercise. It was an egalitarian space, where the wealthy and poor Romans would convene and mingle, inside the baths clothing was removed, and class became indistinguishable. Roman bathhouses, known as thermae, were equipped with hot and cold baths, saunas, and massage rooms. Resembling, modern day spa culture. The Romans constructed these across their empire, taking advantage of natural springs in France, Austria and Hungary. Bathing rituals were highly ritualized and often included the use of fragrant oils and herbs. 

Russian Banya: The Russian tradition of the banya, involves a sauna of around 93  degrees, and then a jump in a cold lake or roll in the snow. It is a significant part of Russian culture, originally constructed of wood and heated by a fire surrounded by stones, that absorb the heat and once ready are dopped into the tub. Traditionally, they are place for bonding for all classes. A circulation pumping ritual of platza, involves the scrubbing of the body with birch, oak and eucalyptus branches to detox the body, the heat of the room releasing the natural essential oils in the leaves and bark. 

Balinese Flower Bath: As part of the Javanese bathing ritual, Lulur, dating back to the 17th century when royalty employed the practice, exfoliation with a herbal paste is followed by a massage and finally a bath infused with flowers and herbs to nourish the skin.

These are just a few examples of the diverse bathing traditions found around the world, each with its own unique customs, rituals, and significance. Whether for relaxation, purification, or socialization, bathing traditions reflect the universal human need for cleanliness, well-being, and connection with others.

Today, Floris celebrates the bathing tradition of scenting baths through the ages. In our contemporary culture bathing offers a moment of respite in this increasingly digital age. Indulge in a Floris bath essence or bath and shower gel for a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience.