Growing Sauna Culture Across the UK
Sauna culture is rapidly expanding throughout the UK, including Wales, with some proponents suggesting that saunas could emerge as the "new pub" for socialising. Currently, there are over 600 public saunas nationwide, many situated in scenic locations such as beaches, lakesides, and rural areas.
While many users highlight the physical and mental health benefits of sauna use, scientific evidence remains complex and nuanced. Experts advise caution, emphasizing the importance of hydration and combining sauna use with other healthy lifestyle practices.
The British Sauna Society (BSS) lists nearly 640 saunas on their website, an increase from 540 at the start of the year. A recent report projects that the UK could become Europe's largest sauna market by 2033.
Gabrielle Reason, director of BSS, stated: "The continuing growth suggests that the peak has still yet to come - if there is one."
Some sauna business owners argue that Wales' dramatic coastlines and remote rural landscapes make it an ideal location for sauna culture, similar to Finland.
Personal Stories: Kathryn Donavan's Journey
Kathryn Donavan, 40, opened Môr A Sawna near Jackson's Bay, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, in June 2024. She had previously struggled with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and endometriosis, initially using cold water therapy to manage her symptoms.
Following surgery to remove parts of her womb, Donavan experienced more frequent and severe flare-ups, sometimes rendering her bedridden. She described the pain as intense and accompanied by flu-like symptoms.
Seeking alternative treatments, she began visiting a sauna located an hour and a half from her home. Finding accessibility limited, she decided to establish her own outdoor sauna. Since then, she reports her health conditions have become more manageable.
"I don't get pain anywhere near as intense as I used to," Donavan said.
Donavan noted that visitors come for various reasons, including seeking community or relief from isolation.
"We've got quite a few people who use it regularly because of various health conditions and it helps them sleep better and move easier.
"I just think sauna is a way of life - it's not a fad, it is a place to unwind and destress or be social," she added.
William Jenkins: From Mental Health Struggles to Sauna Advocate
William Jenkins, 34, spent 15 years in the technology sector, where long hours and stress negatively impacted his mental health, culminating in what he describes as a mental breakdown. During his travels, he discovered sauna culture and visited 70 saunas across 14 countries within nine months, finding it beneficial for his mental wellbeing.
Upon returning to Wales, Jenkins opened Hikitalo Sauna in Porthcawl.
"I class saunas as the new pub. A sober way of getting together and you don't wake up with any hangovers," he said.
Jenkins emphasized the significant mental health benefits of social connection.
"We all need a sense of belonging and that kind of social connection," he said, adding that he believes the culture is "here to stay."
"There's no titles or social status in the sauna, that's what I really love about it. It's a place that's judgement free," he added.
He described saunas as spaces for fostering social connection, which was crucial during his mental health challenges.
"And that's what I'm trying to create here," he said.
Jenkins also highlighted Wales' natural beauty as conducive to sauna culture, drawing parallels with Finland.
"The combination of these social saunas in connection with nature, I think there's something very special about it."
Expert Perspectives on Sauna Use and Health
Dr Geoff Combs, a lecturer in sport and exercise science at Bangor University and member of the Institute for Applied Human Physiology, noted that health benefits from sauna use should be considered alongside other healthy behaviours.
"If someone is telling me that they feel it improves their mental health, that's great, keep doing it," said Combs, while acknowledging the need for further research.
He stressed the importance of safety when using saunas, advising individuals to conduct research from trusted sources and listen to their bodies.
"Listen to your body and be aware that you could overheat - make sure you're hydrating before, bringing water with you and just start slow.
"I mean, go in for a few minutes, see how you feel, take a break.
"I think it's important to have scientific evidence, but if people enjoy doing something, then they should continue to do that," he added, emphasizing safe sauna use.
