I am a recent but hook-line-and-sinker convert to sauna, so much so we have created a fledgling wild sauna business on and around our farm near Melrose in the Scottish Borders. I’m tackling that newbie feeling of imposter syndrome with the help of some inspirational books on sauna and learning from other cultures by seeking out diverse experiences. I hope our sauna sessions and collaborations will evolve over time, and that we bring our regulars and visitors some new ideas and a deeper appreciation of sauna cultures. For sauna enthusiasts, try podcasts like Sauna Talk or Sauna Twins, or Emma O’Kelly’s gorgeous book, Sauna: The Power of Deep Heat.
Germany with a sprinkling of Bali
I’m just back from Berlin, after a recommendation from a friend and Beyla-regular to try the equivalent of sauna Disneyland. Vabali brings fusion culture to the fore, combining a tropical beach vibe and Bali-inspired décor together with an array of Finnish and German saunas – 13 of them, some seating 100 people – a completely different scale of sauna! There were also several steam rooms, mineral baths and an outdoor swimming pool. The persistent sleety rain dampened the Bali atmosphere somewhat but heightened the incredible saunas, and I have many ideas to try out next year. The ‘textile-free’ rule across the complex however, is a step too far for our emerging UK sauna culture and the bashful Brits – we will stick to swimwear!
Aufguss – experiencing infusion
I went to Germany because I really wanted to try Aufguss, and Vabali gave me the chance to try it 3 times, in 3 different saunas, phew! Aufguss is an infusion ritual where towels, fans and whisks made with leaves are used to move steam around the sauna, directing it towards the bathers. The heat is intense, so hot it is sometimes hard to stay in the sauna, even though the session lasts only 10 – 15 minutes. The steam usually comes with a parade of essential oils encapsulated in an ice ball that melts on the sauna stones releasing fragrant steamy clouds, designed to lift the spirit and relax the soul. I enjoyed the choreographed series of movements, aromas and one even included sound bathing. My favourite Aufguss ritual was simple and intense, using only the clear, fresh aroma of a birch whisk to infuse the whole space of the sauna containing over 50 people. Each Aufguss practitioner brings something different.
Interesting experiences to bring back to Beyla
Though it is a bit of a stretch to call our visit to Berlin a work trip, because it was such an amazing all encompassing experience, it will inspire what we do here at Cedar Hus with lots of new ideas to try.
We would love to hear your feedback on any ideas you may have. Here are some interesting experiences we are working on:
– Aufguss – visiting experts to share special experiences and rituals in Beyla.
– Add-ons to sauna sessions, with fresh herbs and aromatics to bring nature to the steam
– Treatments for hair and body
– Delicious post sauna sorbet – I am working on recipes…
