Frequently asked questions
This is a home business, so you will be greeted by homeowner and sauna attendant Paul Barnwell or his wife Rebecca upon arrival. Please park in the driveway or the designated parking area. Car-pooling is encouraged to minimize traffic on our quiet, residential road.
The sauna will be preheated, so you don't have to worry about tending the stove. Paul will review rules and provide you with some operational and experience tips, then leave you alone except for one check-in during your session to stoke the fire if needed.
It's helpful to pre-hydrate before arriving for your sauna session, but you should bring water. If you forget, water will be available.
While there are private areas to change, it's easiest to arrive in bathing attire. Flip flops or sandals that are waterproof are recommended. Please bring a towel as well. Bring a change of clothes if you'd like to change afterwards--the outdoor shower has hot and cold water, in addition to soap and shampoo.
If you are new to a Finnish-style Nordic sauna experience, we look forward to welcoming you! Here's how we suggest you enjoy our sauna, which is usually heated between 170 and 190F:
Heat up: Spend 10-15 minutes in the sauna. Throw water on the rocks if you want to increase the humidity, which results in the releasing of löyly, the Finnish word for the steam released by the water on the rocks.
Cool Down: Step outside to enjoy the fresh air. Or plunge into cold water. Or take on the refreshing shock of a cold shower, which is steps away from the sauna. It's up to you--there is no right or wrong way to take your breaks from the heat!
Repeat this cycle 3-4 times. Make sure you listen to your body, which will let you know if you are overdoing it.
Additional private sessions may be available based on request. Please email morningdewsauna [at] gmail [dot] com to inquire.
You may have heard about the health benefits inherent in various types of sauna experiences. There are plenty of research studies suggesting that this is true, but they don't necessarily prove a causal relationship between sauna and positive health outcomes.
You'll likely feel deep relaxation and other sensations related to your body releasing endorphins and other hormones when exposed to hot and cold.
But there's also the social aspect, which we hope to cultivate at Morning Dew Sauna. Spending time with friends both new and old in a unique environment immersed in nature is undoubtedly good for you.
If you have any preexisting conditions that concern you regarding the safety of sauna usage, please consult a healthcare provider before signing up.
