Two types of totonoi - Awakening and Floating
Aug 25, 2025

About totonoi types
Based on the experiences and data of many sauna-goers, it has become clear that differences in the sensation of "totonoi" can be broadly classified into two distinct trends.
The classification of the "totonoi" trend displayed in the Set details of the Totonoi Log is based on an analysis of autonomic nervous system function.
We will explain these trends below.


Awakening Trend
A state in which autonomic nervous system function is maximized while remaining relaxed, providing a feeling of mental clarity. In this state, your senses are heightened, and you become aware of details you wouldn't normally notice.
"refreshed" or "the resolution of the world has increased"—this is how this type feels.
The balance of the autonomic nervous system is heavily leaning toward the parasympathetic nervous system, and the activity level of the autonomic nervous system is high. In this state, you are relaxed but still have a fair amount of adrenaline remaining in your body, which is an ideal pattern of "totonoi."
You may experience sensations like floating down a river or time passing in the blink of an eye.
This state is similar to the "flow" state experienced by athletes and is said to bring a sense of euphoria.
↗️ The Science of "Totonoi"
Floating Trend
A state of excitement at the moment autonomic nervous system function reaches its peak, resulting in a "lightheaded" or "floating" sensation. Analysis shows that the sympathetic nervous system is dominant in this state.
"the world is spinning" or "a floating sensation like drifting in the air"—this is how this type feels.
This type provides an easy-to-understand sense of comfort, and applying strong physical stress to the body tends to trigger this floating type.
While the best way to enjoy a sauna is the one that feels most comfortable for you, pushing yourself to extremes with excessively hot sauna rooms and freezing cold water baths can be dangerous. If a "lightheaded" sensation turns into dizziness, you are getting close to heat exhaustion, and in some cases, it can lead to fainting. Caution is required against overdoing this floating type of "totonoi."
Furthermore, a strong floating trend of totonoi can have the opposite effect on "sleep induction," which is one of the benefits of saunas. Since the active sympathetic nervous system becomes dominant, it can actually make it harder to fall asleep if the time between the sauna and bedtime is short.
The "totonoi" Sanokuni aims for
In Sanokuni, we aim to expand the exploration of bathing styles to achieve the most deeply relaxing,alert-leaning "totonoi,"and are working to spread this approach.
By understanding your own "totonoi" tendencies, reviewing your bathing style and interpreting your Totonoi Log, you will be able to make adjustments to match your goals.
If you consciously change your bathing style to enjoy saunas more safely and effectively, you might encounter a new "totonoi."
