A non-profit community sauna has opened in Stratford, offering traditional workshops and free sessions for NHS workers.
The successful Community Sauna Baths, a not-for-profit initiative that has gained popularity in Hackney Wick since 2021, has branched out with a new site near Stratford International station.
The new Stratford branch has three saunas, and is nestled inside a complex that hosts LightHouse & Gardens, a community garden and wellbeing area.
The non-profit organises community-specific activities at the Stratford sauna, including a monthly trans night, sessions for pregnant people, and parents and children undergoing difficult times.
NHS trusts in Hackney and Newham now socially prescribe use of the sauna, and free sessions are offered to NHS employees.
Polly Wilson, community outreach officer at Community Sauna Baths, said: "We are dedicated to putting sauna therapy on the social prescribing map, working with various charities and organisations to prescribe saunas to those who need support.
"We wish to share the numerous health benefits of saunas, including improved circulation, detoxification and stress relief, whilst welcoming you to enjoy our friendly community and experience the positive social and mental impact post-sauna."
The Stratford location is brought to life in collaboration with Hadley Property Group, owners of the site.
With plans to refurbish the site by 2025, Hadley decided to lease the formerly vacant space and revitalise it into a lively community hotspot.
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Community Sauna Baths launched in 2021, aiming to make the wellness benefits of sauna use accessible to all by offering low admission prices, with special permissive rates for those who can’t afford it.
The sauna's admission fees are £8.50 during off-peak times, £15 during peak times, and up to £25 for special events.
Simultaneously, the organisation aims to reintroduce authentic sweat-bathing traditions from around the world, offering a variety of traditional sauna rituals and unique events such as storytelling, grief sauna, sound baths, and life drawing.
It also facilitates massage treatments and private sauna bookings.
The Hackney Wick sauna, situated in the car park of a 1930s former bathhouse, features seven saunas, nine cold plunges and a schedule of events targeted at the local community.
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