Whether you’re looking to join one of our public sessions or hiring the sauna for your own group session here are a few FAQ’s answered
Do I need to book?
We welcome walk-ins, and you’re welcome to pay on the day for your sauna session. However, availability cannot be guaranteed, so we highly recommend booking in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
What do I need to bring?
Please bring a towel to sit on and another to dry off or change under. We also recommend bringing plenty of water to stay hydrated and wearing appropriate swimwear during your sauna session.
Do you have changing?
We run wild saunas, so expect to be out in the open and close to the elements. Part of the experience is stepping straight from nature into the heat.
Hayle
A small sheltered changing space is available at our Hayle sauna. Guests are welcome to use this area before and after their session.
Falmouth
Our Falmouth sauna does not have a changing room, so please arrive swim-ready. Most guests bring a robe or towel for comfort before and after their session.
Who can use the Sauna?
Saunas offer powerful therapeutic benefits when used safely. On the day of your visit, our team will guide you through safe sauna practice, and it is essential that you follow this advice. By taking part, you agree to our terms and conditions and accept responsibility for managing your own health, comfort, and personal limits. Sauna use is at your own risk.
If you have an existing health condition or any concerns about sauna use, we recommend seeking medical advice beforehand. Do not use the sauna if you are feeling unwell, have a fever, or are experiencing dizziness or fainting symptoms.
We reserve the right to refuse entry or remove anyone who is intoxicated or poses a health and safety risk. Alcohol is not permitted on the sauna premises.
Children
Unless agreed ahead of your booking, Children under 16 are welcome only during private hires and must be supervised on a one-to-one basis by a responsible adult.
Respiratory Illness
For the comfort and safety of others, please do not attend if you have a respiratory infection.
By booking and participating in a session, you agree to follow all guidance provided by our staff and accept full responsibility for your health and wellbeing during your visit.
How do I use the Sauna?
General Safety:
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before and after your sauna session.
Time: Listen to your body—we recommend that you sauna for 5-15 minutes at a time .
No Glass: For safety, no glass is allowed in the sauna—bring your own water bottle.
Jewellery: Remove all hanging jewellery to prevent burns.
Entrance area: Please ensure that the entrance is kept clear to allow those in the sauna to exit when they need to.
Sauna Stove: Do NOT touch the stove or rocks; it’s very hot! If you’d like another log, please ask.
Etiquette:
Footwear: Remove shoes and wash your feet before entering.
Towels: Always sit on a towel while inside the sauna.
Hygiene: Remove makeup and skincare products and don’t sauna if you’ve dyed your hair in the last 72 hours.
Pouring Water: Only pour the provided “sauna water” on the stones. Ask other bathers before adding water to the stones and please pour slowly to avoid splashing.
Timing: Please ensure that you are clear of the sauna at the end of your session to allow the next session to begin.
Respect Privacy: During social sessions, please refrain from taking photos or videos.
What are the health benefits?
There is a wealth of scientific evidence supporting the numerous health benefits of regular sauna use. While this list is far from exhaustive, here are a few key benefits backed by research:
Lower Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
Regular sauna sessions have been shown to help reduce blood pressure and heart rate. A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension by Laukkanen et al. (2017) found that frequent sauna use was associated with a reduced risk of hypertension, likely due to improved vascular function and relaxation of blood vessels.Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Research suggests that regular sauna bathing can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. A longitudinal study by Laukkanen et al. (2015) in JAMA Internal Medicine found that individuals who used a sauna 4-7 times per week had a significantly lower risk of fatal cardiovascular events compared to those who used it less frequently.Reduced Risk of Dementia
Regular sauna use may also reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. A study by Laukkanen et al. (2017) published in Age and Ageing showed that men who used a sauna 4-7 times per week had a 66% lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who used the sauna once per week.Reduction in Stress
Sauna bathing has been linked to stress relief, as it promotes relaxation and decreases cortisol levels, according to a study by Hannuksela and Ellahham (2001) in American Journal of Medicine. The heat therapy triggers a sense of calmness and improved mood through endorphin release.Increased Wellbeing and Calmness
Sauna sessions can enhance overall mental wellbeing. A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine by Beever (2010) found that regular sauna use improved overall feelings of calmness and emotional balance in participants, particularly in those with mild depression and anxiety.Lower Risk of Death from Heart Failure
Sauna bathing may also help reduce the risk of heart failure. The JAMA Internal Medicine study by Laukkanen et al. (2015) found that frequent sauna users had a significantly lower risk of fatal heart failure compared to those who seldom used the sauna.Reduced Risk of Blood Clots
Another benefit is a potential reduction in the risk of blood clots. The same study by Laukkanen and colleagues (2015) observed improved circulation and lower rates of venous thromboembolism in frequent sauna users.Improved Skin Health
Saunas can improve skin health by enhancing circulation and opening pores. This process helps flush out toxins and cleanse the skin. According to a study by Schlippe et al. (2007) in Dermatology, regular sauna use may result in clearer, healthier-looking skin by promoting cellular regeneration.Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery
Sauna use has been shown to reduce muscle soreness and aid in recovery after exercise. A study by Leppäluoto et al. (1986) in Annals of Clinical Research found that the heat from the sauna promotes muscle relaxation, reduces joint stiffness, and alleviates pain, making it beneficial for athletes or individuals with muscle pain.Boosts Immune System
Regular sauna use may strengthen the immune system. Research published by Pilch et al. (2013) in the Journal of Human Kinetics found that sauna exposure can increase the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections and boosting overall immunity.Improved Lung Function
Some studies suggest that sauna use may benefit respiratory health. According to research by Ernst et al. (1986) in Respiration, sauna bathing may help relieve symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions by improving lung function and reducing inflammation in the airways.Improved Mental Health and Cognitive Function
In addition to reducing the risk of dementia, regular sauna use has been associated with improved mood and cognitive function. A study by Heiniö et al. (2020) in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies suggests that sauna use can enhance memory and focus, potentially due to the positive effects on brain circulation and reduced stress levels.
For more in-depth information on these and other health benefits, keep an eye on our blog and social media accounts, where we share studies and insights regularly.
What's the best way to use my session?
It’s really up to you—everyone discovers their ideal sauna routine through experience. Whether you book a 30-minute or 45-minute session, be sure to arrive ready with your towel at the start of your appointment to fully enjoy the sauna.
For us, we love to combine the sauna with cold water immersion. We often start with a swim, followed by a 10-15 minute sauna session to work up a good sweat. Once we’re warmed through, we take a quick dip for 2-3 minutes before heading back into the sauna for the remainder of the session.
There is evidence to suggest that starting with the sauna may enhance the effects of cold water immersion. Sauna use triggers the release of dynorphins, which can cause a temporary feeling of discomfort but ultimately prepare the body for an increased endorphin response. This makes the cold water feel more rewarding and invigorating afterward, as the body becomes more sensitive to endorphins, which are responsible for feelings of pleasure and well-being (Patrick et al., 2021; Huberman, 2022).
If we’re saunaing in the morning, we often prefer to finish with a cold swim to feel energized and invigorated for the day. In the evening, however, we like to end on the warmth of the sauna, as we find it helps us sleep better.
For a more extended relaxation experience, we recommend booking two back-to-back sessions. This gives you time to alternate between the sauna and cold water a few more times—perfect for those looking to completely unwind.
Start slowly and build up. Booking a second session straight after your first is a fantastic way to enhance your experience once you’ve acclimatised to the heat and cold combination.
Finally, watch out for our special events when we offer enriched sauna experiences such as whisking and ‘Pirtis’ rituals and ceremonies along with collaborations where we include yoga and sound baths for instance.
Is parking available?
Parking is available near all of our sauna locations; however, please note that parking facilities are managed independently from Escape to the Sauna. We advise you to check and follow any local parking fees and regulations when using the sauna.
Say Hello.
Contact us via email at escapeswims@gmail.com or via our instagram account @escape_swims where we will be happy to answer any questions.