Taking the Plunge
A Family’s First Sauna & Cold Plunge Experience
Introducing the Idea
Suggesting to my family that plunging into a cold river might actually be enjoyable felt like quite the ask. My children and husband usually watch in a mix of awe and horror as I tell them about my regular cold sea dips or my ice-cold morning showers. Their typical reaction? A disbelieving “Why?”, usually followed by a quick exit before I can explain.
So, when we were given the opportunity to try river swimming as a family – paired with a sauna experience – I was taken aback by how keen they all were. Husband included! The idea of sharing something I love (and benefit from so deeply) with them was compelling. And as it turned out, their reactions didn’t disappoint.
What to Bring? Not Much.
“What do we wear, mummy?”
Luckily, not much! That’s one of the many positives of this invigorating experience, you don’t need lots of gear or planning. Just swimsuits, towels, and a sense of adventure.
The Setting: Shokk & Awe Sauna
We began with the sauna experience. The Shokk & Awe sauna is a beautifully designed structure, nestled within woodland right by a running river. A literal picture-postcard setting.
As we stepped inside the log cabin, warmed by a wood fire glowing in the corner, the heat was intense but not unpleasant. What struck me most was the calming effect it had on our children. The excitement and energy shifted, melted as their bodies began to relax in the heat.
Both my husband and I noticed it: a shared sense of calm, a quieting of thoughts. It felt like our brains were surrendering to the moment. As a parent, this was a wonderful thing to witness. I even thought about friends whose children experience anxiety—this could be such a calming, grounding experience for them too.
Then, the Plunge
With our bodies now warmed, it was time to take the plunge – literally.
I was the only one who truly knew what was coming, so I let them go in first. I stood back in awe, watching my three children and husband step into the river. There were a few squeals, but very little fuss.
And then came the magic.
I watched their bodies and minds reawaken. The cold didn’t seem harsh, it was exhilarating. No one got out shaking, no one was overwhelmed. Instead, their skin tingled with energy, their spirits lifted, and everyone was excited to jump straight back into the sauna.
Repeat and Recharge
We repeated the cycle three times:
Plunge, sauna. Plunge, sauna. Plunge, sauna.
If we didn’t have a prior engagement, I’m certain they would have gone on much longer. The euphoria from this experience is addictive—calming, revitalising, and joyful all at once.
I didn’t need convincing – I’m already hooked, but I thought my family might. I was wrong. They fell in love with it immediately. And as parents, with our children’s wellbeing always front of mind, this experience ticked so many important boxes.
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t just a fun family activity, it was a deeply rewarding experience for the mind and body. I truly believe this kind of experience could benefit many more children and families.
We fell in love with it. And we can’t wait to take another plunge very soon.
Written by Julia Yule, Founder of Bloom and Blossom [instagram].