How to Fashion a Venik (Leaf Scrub)

If you ever visit a Russian bath (banya), you may be treated to a vigorous massage, as well. What makes this massage unique is that it is administered with the help of a venik--a scrub make out of oak or birch leaves. Read on to learn how to fashion a venik (leaf scrub).

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. During a dry day in either June to July, pick a sizable handful of thin oak or birch twigs. These twigs should be bedecked with plenty of leaves.
2. Arrange the twigs into a neat little bundle. Tie a loop of string around the bundle of twigs, about ten inches from the top of the bundle.
3. Make a cut at the bottom of the bundle, so as to make a handle. Remove the leaves from the stem until it is stripped bare.
4. Wind the rope several times around the handle, holding it tightly together, and knot the cord around the end of the handle.
5. Cut the bottom of the handle again, to keep the twigs even.
6. Rub the bottom of the venik's handle along a rough surface--a large rock is ideal. This helps to eliminate and of the handle's sharp edges.