Why kids need saunas too

Young people have a lot going on. School, clubs, friendships, family, growing up, figuring out who they are and trying to make sense of the world.

And, just like adults, sometimes they need a moment just to switch off, space to slow down, to notice how they’re feeling and simply 'be'.

So we've been thinking - what is it about sauna (and cold plunging) that can be so valuable for young people?

Big day and big emotions? The sauna gives us somewhere to chill.

Young people experience big emotions, just like adults do. Sometimes they need somewhere away from the noise and stimulation to take a breath and pause. The sauna can be a quieter space to sit, breathe, chat or just be still for a while.

Sauna helps us listen to our bodies

Am I comfortable? Am I too hot? Do I need a break? How do I feel afterwards?

Sauna gives young people an opportunity to notice what’s happening in their bodies and learn to respond to it. Listening to ourselves and understanding what we need is a simple skill, but one that's hard to master - even as an adult!

Sauna helps us practise being respectful and kind

There are many ways to think about other people in a sauna.

Sitting down? Sit on your towel.

Want to pour water on the stones? Check with everyone else first.

Leaving the sauna? Remember to close the door.

Heading for the cold dip? Shower first.

They might seem like tiny things, but they make us think about the people around us and the environment we’re in.

Time together, IRL

No phones, no screens, no distractions. Just time to chat, laugh, listen, tell stories, be social, or relax and sit quietly together. That kind of time can be hard to find these days.

Build rituals

Looking after yourself takes time and consistency. Young people are still figuring out what makes them feel good, what actually helps them feel well, and when they need to slow down. Simple habits and routines like a regular sauna with your family can become part of that. And maybe they’re routines they’ll carry with them as they grow up.

And it feels good!

There’s something about heat, cold, movement and taking time out that can leave you feeling pretty amazing, so your grumpy pre-teen might go in feeling grumpy and come out feeling… well, a little less grumpy.

Make memories

Maybe this is the most important one of all. When you look back at your childhood, what do you remember? Coming for a sauna. Sitting around afterwards. Sharing oranges. Having a laugh. Taking the plunge. Doing it all again the next time. Maybe the sauna can become one of those places that people of all ages associate with connection, feeling good and spending time with people they love.

Our next family sessions are taking place in half term, Monday 26 October in Slaithwaite and Hebden Bridge.