First time at Bristol Community Sauna?
Whether you’re a seasoned sauna-goer and new to our site, or completely new to the experience entirely, we’re here to help you get the most out of your time with us.
All of our guests are different from one another, as is our tolerance to hot and cold – for everyone who visits, we ask you to celebrate your differences and to listen to your body.
Most will go through cycles of heat, cold, rest, and repeat, but how you want to use your time with us is entirely up to you.
Arrival
Bristol Community Sauna is situated as St Anne’s House, St Anne’s Rd, Brislington, Bristol BS4 4AB.
On arrival, our friendly Sauna Attendant will sign you in and will show you around the site, so you can see the saunas and showers in our lovely garden, where to get changed, and where the facilities are located.
Take a look at our informational video for what to expect on your first visit.
The Sauna Cycle
Heat
Step into the sauna and spend a period in the heat, we reccomend around 10-15 minutes. Listen to your body and step out whenever you feel ready.
Cold
Take a quick cold shower or a dip in one of our cold plunges to close your pours and invigorate the senses.
Rest
Wrap up and rest for a period in our tranquil chillout area. Rehydrate and take a breather before returning to the sauna.
Repeat
Repeat the cycle 2-3 times during your Bristol Community Sauna session for the full restorative effects of hot and cold.
Heat
When you get into the sauna, close the door behind you to keep the heat in. Once you have sat down on your towel, allow the warmth to work its way through you. You may find the heat quite intense at first, your heart rate may rise with the temperature and you will begin to sweat. This is completely normal and you are advised to breathe deeply and hydrate.
Generally speaking, the temperature on the top benches can be 10-20 degrees hotter than on the lower benches. So if you’re looking for something gentler, start low.
We have fifteen-minute hourglasses within the saunas, but do not feel you have to stay until then. If you have had enough heat than you are comfortable with, it is time to step outside, and take a moment to cool off.
Please don’t wring out towels inside the sauna or changing areas.
Sauna Hats
You may notice some guests wearing sauna hats. These help regulate temperature around the head and can make it more comfortable to stay in the heat for longer. They’re not essential, but you’re welcome to use one if you have it.
Generally speaking, the temperature on the top benches can be 10-20 degrees hotter than on the lower benches. So if you’re looking for something gentler, start low.
We have fifteen-minute hourglasses within the saunas, but do not feel you have to stay until then. If you have had enough heat than you are comfortable with, it is time to step outside, and take a moment to cool off.
Please don’t wring out towels inside the sauna or changing areas.
Conversation
During silent sessions, we ask that you respect the space and avoid talking.
In regular sessions, quiet conversation is welcome, but please keep voices low and be mindful of those who may be resting or enjoying the space more quietly.
Steam & Aromatherapy
At times, water and essential oils are poured onto the hot stones, creating a wave of steam known as “löyly”.
This is a core part of the sauna experience. The steam softens the heat, deepens the warmth, and can carry subtle aromatherapy through the space.
When applied correctly, you’ll feel a gentle wave of heat pass through the sauna, often making the experience more immersive and relaxing.
Many people find this to be an enjoyable part of their session, but if it feels too intense, you can always move to a lower bench or step outside.
Remember
When adding steam or aromatherapy, always ask your fellow saunagoers for consent first. If you’re not sure how to safely add steam or aromatherapy, please come and consult with the team, and we will show you.
Cold
After heating up, you can cool down in the garden, take a cold shower, or try a cold plunge. Our cold plunges are set at 5°C and 10°C. If it’s your first time, start with just a few seconds and see how you feel.
The cold can feel intense at first. Your breathing and heart rate may increase, followed by a sense of calm as your body adjusts. You may feel a prickling on your skin when leaving; this is totally normal.
Rest
After heating up, you can cool down in the garden, take a cold shower, or try a cold plunge. Our cold plunges are set at 5°C and 10°C. If it’s your first time, start with just a few seconds and see how you feel.
The cold can feel intense at first. Your breathing and heart rate may increase, followed by a sense of calm as your body adjusts. You may feel a prickling on your skin when leaving; this is totally normal.
Health and Safety
- Avoid the sauna if you are feeling unwell, have a fever, or have recently fainted
- Speak to a doctor before visiting if you are pregnant or have heart conditions or blood pressure concerns
- Avoid alcohol and drugs before and during your session
- Stay well hydrated throughout
- Read our code of conduct
Still have questions?
If you have any questions or concerns during your time with us, please come and talk to your friendly sauna attendant and they will help you! If you have questions before or after your session, send us an email at hello@bristolcommunitysauna.org
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