Pop Up Winter Warmth

You don't have to be cold. Choose to dip in water covered in sheets of ice, and get the most out of it, but also choose to get toasty.

The Scandinavians have the knowhow when it comes to getting through the coldest, darkest months. Dry sauna heat to warm your aching body is high on the list of Scandi winter activities. The heat can help relax muscles, relieve tension, and soothe your body.

Sensory-wise, it can be a beautiful experience. Sounds are quietened in the wood-lined space, there's a scent of pine and the light becomes saturated.

You can be lucky and find a sports centre close by with a sauna on-site, but you can't chose who you're sharing it with. Pop-up saunas have started to make an appearance. Bookable sessions by the hour, you can now take along a group of friends to a sauna-on-wheels. Often complete with changing spaces and dipping pools you can enjoy some contrast therapy and alternate between hot sauna sessions and cold showers or ice baths. 

These sauna setups have been on the festival circuits over the past couple of years and are now visiting towns near you. We've seen (and visited) in some curious locations. While some can be found next to a lake or a river, we've enjoyed the experience in less salubrious locations such as pub car parks. (It was still a great event.)

If you're considering searching out pop-up saunas for a session, here's some facts on the benefits:

1. Improved cardiovascular health: Saunas can help improve cardiovascular function by increasing heart rate and blood circulation. The heat causes blood vessels to dilate, which can lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health.

2. Detoxification: Saunas induce sweating, which helps eliminate toxins and impurities from the body. 

3. Stress reduction: Saunas promote relaxation and can help reduce stress levels. The heat and steam can help relax muscles and relieve tension, leading to a sense of calm.

4. Pain relief: The heat from saunas can help alleviate muscle and joint pain. It can also help reduce inflammation and promote faster recovery from injuries.

5. Improved respiratory function: Saunas can benefit respiratory health by opening up airways and clearing congestion. The heat and steam can help relieve symptoms in asthma and allergies.