Experiencing your first outdoor sauna followed by a cold plunge experience is an extremely rejuvenating activity and an amazing routine to incorporate in to any wellness routine, growing in popularity these experiences promise both physical and mental benefits. If you’re venturing into this for wellness or simply to try something new, it’s always beneficial to know what to expect and anything that might help your experience. We’ve curated six essential tips to help you make the most of your first outdoor sauna and cold plunge experience!
1. Understanding the Benefits
Before you step into the sauna or plunge into cold water, it’s always beneficial to understand why these practices are so popular. Saunas promote relaxation, detoxification and improved circulation, plus a wide range of additional benefits which can be seen here:
Cold plunges help with muscle recovery, reduce inflammation and boost your mood by releasing endorphins. Celebrities such as Cristiano Ronaldo have also been seen taking up cold plunges across social media, which is helping boost it’s popularity!
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2. Hydration
It’s essential to ensure your body is properly hydrated, with essential salts and vitamins. Saunas can deplete salt and vitamin levels so ensuring your body is prepared for the experience is key! Stay well-hydrated before the experience, you may also wish to bring some hydration salts which are portable and can be easily dissolved in water. It’s also recommended to avoid any heavy meals immediately before or after. Instead opt for lighter, healthy snacks like fruit or nuts, and remember to drink water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
3. What to wear?
It’s suitable to choose comfortable swimwear and clothing you don’t mind getting a bit damp to change in to. Bringing your own robe, a large towel, shower gels and haircare products is advised also. You can always check with the retreat in advance to see what they provide, then work around that. We also recommend taking a pair of waterproof sandals or flip flops!
4. Ease Into It
If it’s your first time, don’t push yourself too hard and listen to your body. Start with a moderate sauna session of 5–10 minutes, and listen to your body. When transitioning to the cold plunge, take slow, steady breaths to calm your nervous system. Your first cold plunge might take your breath away, but again you should listen to your body, ease gently in to the water if you’re unfamiliar with the experience. This can be seen as ‘the hard way’ of going about it, but it’s by far the most sensible. If you are confident, healthy and happy to do so, there is nothing stopping you from going ‘all in’ this can be an extremely invigorating experience.
5. Additional Gear
Having the right accessories can enhance your experience. Packing an extra towel for drying off after the cold plunge and especially a water bottle are highly recommended. Additional accessories such as Sauna Hats and Lip Balm can provide added benefits, dry lips are common after excessive dry air. For an extra touch of luxury, bringing natural essential oils or eucalyptus for a refreshing sauna experience can boost the aromas, check with the facility first as these might already be offered. If you’re interested in additional sauna accessories, check out our article “10 Essential Sauna Accessories” here.
6. Take Time to Rest Afterwards
The contrast of heat and cold from the experience can leave your body feeling energised yet relaxed straight after. Give yourself time to rest and enjoy the afterglow. Gentle walks afterwards can help your body adjust to the elements your body has just been through, later in the day you may feel your body feeling extremely relaxed, helping aid in an excellent nights sleep!
Final Thoughts
Your first outdoor sauna and cold plunge can be an exhilarating experience that combines relaxation, invigoration, and a sense of accomplishment! The combination of sauna and cold therapy will do wonders for your health, body and mind.
Looking to find your first Sauna Escape? We’ve listed some excellent outdoor Sauna & Cold Plunge retreats across the UK here!
To continue with the benefits at home, or for those simply wishing to reap the benefits from home, we’ve put together a list of portable ‘cold plunge’ tubs which can be seen here.We’ve also put together a list of home saunas available to purchase from Amazon which can be found here.
Are you ready to take the plunge? Let us know how your first outdoor sauna experience goes by commenting below!
