Sauna Guide

Essentials for first time users

People in a dimly lit room sitting and kneeling on wooden benches, performing a yoga or meditation session, with their hands on their chests and eyes closed.

Taking the first step.

Everything you need to know to make your first Finnish Sauna a glowing success.

A person pouring water from an orange travel mug into a white cup with gray polka dots, wearing a black sports bra and a gray fuzzy jacket.

Hydration is key

Have a good drink of water before you arrive & pack a water bottle to hydrate during your sauna.

We provide water and small reusable cups but recommend you have an ample supply during your session.

What should I bring?

  • Swimwear is mandatory in the sauna.

  • Please bring a small towel to sit on in the sauna, and a larger towel to dry off when you leave

  • Great for slipping ion and off when you are moving in between the external decking areas and the sauna room itself

  • Covering your head in the sauna is recommended. This is because your head, especially the scalp, is more sensitive to heat than the rest of your body. Covering it will protect it from head related discomfort and even headaches.

    So go ahead and pick up a felt hat from our shop

  • Yes, we did already mention hydration, but is really is key!

Sauna Etiquette

Our saunas are a community-orientated facility and we encourage chatting with like minded souls.

However we encourage you to respect others and keep your voices low as to not disturb the calm nature of the space

Löyly Etiquette

Near Wild saunas are built for true löyly – the soft wave of steam created when water meets hot stones. It’s the heart of the Finnish sauna experience, and the moment the sauna really comes alive.

Here, löyly is always welcome. Pour water onto the stones and “throw a löyly” whenever you like.

Just be mindful of the people you’re sharing with. It’s good sauna manners to pause as you pass the stove, ask the room if they’d like some löyly, and make sure everyone enjoys the heat together.

During your sauna

  • The hottest heat rises to the top, so start on a lower bench if you’re unsure and work your way up as you settle in.

  • If you’re new to sauna, start with 5 to 10 minutes. As your body adapts, you can build up to 15 to 20 minutes per round.

  • Here, löyly is always welcome. Pour water onto the stones and “throw a löyly” whenever you like.

    Just be mindful of the people you’re sharing with. It’s good sauna manners to pause as you pass the stove, ask the room if they’d like some löyly, and make sure everyone enjoys the heat together. Remember, too much water may inadvertently cool the sauna.

  • Make sure to drink enough to replace the fluids you lose

  • Take the time to slow down

  • Always listen to your body and step outside to cool down if the heat feels too much. Take breaks however you like, with a cold shower, a refreshing dip, or simply a few minutes in the fresh air.

  • Taking a sauna at Near Wild is not about rapid cycles of hot and cold, take time to enjoy your surroundings, chat with friends and when you have finished cooling off head back to the sauna for some more heat.