What should I do before my first sauna?
Before heading into the sauna, make sure you’ve had plenty of water. Hydration is key, as you’ll lose fluids through sweating during your session. We’d recommend drinking a glass or two of water beforehand.
Before stepping into the sauna, we also recommend taking a quick shower. Not only does this rinse away any lotions, perfumes or other products, but it also helps prepare your body for the sauna experience and gets you ready to sweat!
While we provide water and reusable cups during our sessions, we recommend packing a water bottle too to keep yourself hydrated.
What should I bring to a sauna session?
As well as a water bottle, please bring swimwear (swimwear is mandatory in Luna Hut saunas) and two towels – one to sit on and a larger one for drying off with.
Many of our regulars bring their changing robes to keep them feeling toasty after their sessions, as well as providing an easy way to get changed should the changing rooms be full.
Flip-flops are helpful for navigating the pesky pebbles and other natural flooring!
What should I expect when visiting a Luna Hut sauna for the first time?
Our sauna sessions are designed with relaxation in mind. We want people to enjoy sitting back, taking in the heat and just taking time out for themselves.
Our saunas in Brighton (Sea Lanes and Sauna Café), Eastbourne, Worthing and Bognor Regis take inspiration from Finnish sauna traditions, with natural timber interiors, plenty of steam and a connection to the outdoors.
Taking a nod from Finnish sauna culture, we want our saunas to bring together heat, nature and gentle conversation.
If you haven’t visited us before, we’d suggest letting your friendly sauna host know. They’ll be able to advise you and give you the lowdown on each site. They’re here to welcome you and share their knowledge.
Do I need to wear a sauna hat?
To sauna hat or not to sauna hat, that is the question!
We get asked this a fair bit, and from our own experience, we’d recommend donning one of our fetching grey felt caps (free to use).
Sauna hats help protect your head and hair from the intense heat, making longer periods in the sauna feel more comfortable.
They’re particularly handy if you’re sitting on the higher benches, where temperatures are hottest.
Do I need to cold plunge with a sauna session?
The simple answer is no!
While a cold plunge or standing underneath one of our bucket showers offers an exhilarating way to cool down, it’s completely optional.
Simply standing or sitting outside in the fresh air for a few minutes is a great way to cool down between sauna rounds.
There’s no pressure to brave the icy water if you don’t fancy it.
Should I talk in a sauna?
Saunas have traditionally been places for people to meet and conversations to flow. Our saunas are spaces for community, and we encourage chatting with like-minded souls.
However, we ask that you respect others and keep voices at a considerate level to ensure the session is as relaxing for everyone as possible.
For those who prefer a completely quiet experience, we also offer specific silent sessions at our saunas throughout the week.
Key tips for first-time sauna-goers
Not sure where to sit in a sauna? Just remember that heat rises, so the hottest parts of the sauna are generally up high. For first-timers, we’d suggest opting for a lower bench and working your way up if you feel comfortable.
How long should I stay in a sauna? For beginners, it’s best to start slow and steady with 5–10 minutes at a time. Then step outside for some fresh air and a shower. If you’d like, enjoy an icy plunge or invigorating bucket shower before heading in for another sauna round. Always listen to your body rather than watching the clock.
What should I do with the sauna water ladle? In each of our wood-fired saunas, you’ll find a small bucket filled with fresh water and a ladle to create löyly – the Finnish word for the steam that rises when water is poured onto hot sauna stones. Adding water to the stones increases the humidity and creates a wonderful wave of heat throughout the sauna. Löyly is a traditional part of the Finnish sauna experience and is often described as the spirit of the sauna. If it’s your first time, take it easy and get acclimatised to the heat. And if you’d like to try pouring water but feel nervous, just ask your sauna host to show you.
Remember to be considerate of others before adding more steam!
Stay hydrated when using a sauna. Yes, hydration comes up again! You’ll lose water through sweating, so it’s important to drink regularly throughout your visit. Water is available at each of our sauna sites, so do help yourself between rounds.
Most importantly, don’t push yourself. Sauna is supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable, so take it slowly, sink into the heat and allow yourself to rest. Take regular breaks outside to cool down, and only return to the sauna when you’re feeling comfortable. If you feel dizzy, faint or unwell at any point, leave the sauna and let your sauna host know so they can help.
Do I need to do anything after my first sauna?
Whether you’re a regular sauna-goer or it’s your first time, there are a few things we’d recommend after your session.
First things first: cool down. Start with a refreshing shower to rinse off any sweat, then, if you fancy it, take a dip in the cold plunge pool or enjoy an invigorating bucket shower. Cold plunging is completely optional, and simply spending some time outside in the fresh air is a great way to cool down too.
If you can, don’t rush back into being busy (easier said than done, we know!). Give yourself time to relax and recover. Lie down, read a book or enjoy some quiet time after your sauna.
And again – be sure to keep sipping on water!
Ready to book your first Sussex sauna?
Find all Luna Hut Saunas here: https://www.lunahutsauna.co.uk/locations
