Living in Finland has made me take a complete 180 degree turn about my thoughts on casual nudity.
It might seem counterintuitive that Finns, who are very reserved, quiet, and
described as "cold" don't hesitate to wear their birthday suit in the sauna. In fact, you'll look out of place wearing a swimsuit or covering up with a towel when going to the sauna. While you can do it, you won't get kicked out, you might actually feel more uncomfortable than if you had gone naked.
As an American, I had to do a lot of mental gymnastics to get comfortable with being naked and sweaty around people and then making eye contact while having a normal conversation.
I'm not sure if I struggled more with the thought of sitting next to complete strangers, or sitting next to my friends completely naked. There are some things you just can't come back from.
The thing about going to the sauna is that there's nothing sexual about it. So, you have to separate the idea that nudity=sexuality. The sauna is a place to cleanse yourself mentally and physically, and Finns say that you should conduct yourself as you would in church.
After my first stint in the sauna with my friends I realized that it's a bonding process. While you're there to unwind you chat and relax among people that you trust. You talk about anything that comes to mind and let go of stress that you've been carrying all day, or since the last time you were in the sauna.
There's no "shame" in being naked. No one will be shocked to see you in the nude, because everyone has their own naked body. It's freeing and feels great. It's rejuvenating, especially when taking a dip in between steam sessions.
There are no rules when it comes to the sauna. Do whatever you want as long as you don't piss anyone off. Relax, unwind, have a beer and let go of your worries.
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