The Banya is a traditional Russian steam bath, which combines steam, heat, and massage to relieve stress and improve circulation.
There are also cardiovascular benefits to the banya experience. For people that deal with higher blood pressure and cardiovascular conditions, the sauna’s sweating induction helps the heart pump faster. In turn, blood flow is increased, increasing circulation and lowering blood pressure. As the temperature drops suddenly in a plunge pool, blood vessels constrict, strengthening the heart and improving blood circulation.
- Heat – The Banya is held in an outdoor Cedar Barrel Sauna, heated by an electric stove that warms rocks. The heat opens pores, increases circulation, and aids purification.
- Steam – A mixture of water and essential oils is poured over hot rocks to create steam that fills the sauna. This opens the lungs and sinuses and helps the body to sweat.
- Venik – A therapist uses bundles of oak or birch leaves, called venik, to brush and tap the body to deliver more heat.
- Massage – Therapeutic massage is applied to the body utilizing long gliding strokes to activate the lymph and circulatory systems eliminating toxins, stress and inflammation.
- Second Banya – Traditionally a second Banya is utilized after the massage for further detoxification and healing.
- Cool-down – A bucket of cool water is poured or ladled over the body to boost the immune system and improve circulation. Depending on personal preference a cold plunge is also possible but not required.
Our banya treatments are “home-style” rather than “communal.” We provide you with a steam bath to lie in for 15-20 minutes under the care of your massage therapist! The steam created by the heated rocks allows the essential oils to permeate the room as a mixture of water and essential oils is poured over them. To move the hot steam to your body, the bundles of oak leaves, called venik, are shaken and heated over the rocks after you break a sweat. To further relax and detoxify the body, they will be brushed and tapped along the body to deliver more heat. Last but not least, a cool bucket of water is poured over the body as a boost to the immune system, to better circulation, and for a quick cool down.
How should I prepare my body for a treatment at Atrium Wellness?
- Arrive well hydrated. If drinking enough water regularly is a challenge for you, be intentional about hydrating for 24 hours before your appointment. Everyone should drink at least 8 oz of water before starting their treatment. We will provide spring water with electrolytes throughout the treatment as well.
- Avoid having an overly empty or overly full stomach. It’s best to have a meal 3 hours before your treatment. If you are hungry right before your appointment, have a piece of fruit or energy bar to curb your hunger. If your appointment is in the morning, drink water, skip excess caffeine, and have a small simple breakfast.
- Refrain from consuming alcohol within 24 hours of your appointment. Being intoxicated or hungover can lower your tolerance for heat and cause dehydration. Intoxication is also a contraindication for massage. Safety first!
Dehydration, intoxication, and a full stomach can all lead to lower blood pressure and blood sugar, as well as increase in headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness. Our therapists will check in with you to see how you are feeling, but preparing your body beforehand will ensure the safest most enjoyable experience.
Supporting your body after a Banya treatment:
- For 24 hours following your treatment hydrate as much as possible.You will need to replenish the water lost through sweating and continue to flush toxins.
- Eat a nourishing healthy meal that isn’t too heavy.
- It is not ideal to consume alcohol following a treatment, but we understand that many of our clients enjoy dining out including a drink or two. Please be sure to drink moderately and be drinking plenty of water in addition to your drink of choice to avoid a headache, nausea, and dehydration
Do I need a swimsuit?
This is completely up to you! The barrel sauna and treatment room is private and you are free to be without a swimsuit as long as you and the person you are with are comfortable. When a therapist is present during the massage and banya, you will be draped appropriately with towels or sheets the entire time.
I don’t do well with heat. Is the Banya not for me?
We love to accommodate anyone who is willing to give the banya a try! Whether you don’t tolerate heat well, or don’t do well in confined spaces, we can accommodate you. Even though the banya experience is all about testing your limits and leaving renewed, we also want you to feel safe and satisfied. We can open the door, provide you with a cold wet cloth, and give you plenty of water to drink. It is our goal to give you the safest and most satisfying experience possible.
Before booking a Banya session, people with blood pressure or circulation issues should consult a medical professional.
