The Sauna Ritual: Health, Recovery, and Human Connection with Justin Juntunen

Health is where getting 1% better starts.In this episode of the 1% Better Podcast, Craig Thielen sits down with Justin Juntunen, founder of Cedar & Stone Sauna, to explore the ancient practice of sauna and why it continues to matter in modern life.Justin shares the cultural roots of traditional Finnish sauna, the difference between sauna and infrared, and why heat, recovery, ritual, and consistency can support both physical and mental wellbeing.The conversation also goes beyond health benefits and into what makes sauna so meaningful: slowing down, disconnecting from screens, creating space for real conversation, and reconnecting with family, community, and tradition.This episode is a reminder that improvement is not always about pushing harder. Sometimes, getting 1% better starts with recovery, rhythm, and restoring the foundation.