Through many years of practice, we have found that incorporating three central elements- nature, hot, and cold – has the greatest overall effect on physical and mental well-being.
1 – Nature
Snow Angel Hill overlooks neighboring forest and farmland. Before private saunas we take a 1km walk around the property to re-establish a connection to the earth. During Sauna club we get out between rounds to walk and take in the view. This time outside helps to feel the outside environment before going back inside.
2 – Hot
Our sauna is located in the downstairs of the main house. It was added in the late 1990s and has been a major feature of the house since then. We burn mostly spruce and poplar that has fallen locally. We keep the temperature between 80°-105°C.
3 – Cold
We have a relaxation room, 2 indoor showers, and outdoor ice bath options. We will keep these tubs running even into -30-degree temperature – so be ready to ice dip in the cold. Water temperature ranges from 4°-10°C. There is lots of space to walk and roll in the snow near the house, and a 1km trail around the property.
Schedule
Nature Walk
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15m Sauna
10-15m Cold / Rest
Repeat as needed (Recommended 3-5 rounds)
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Change
Relax
Snacks (for private bookings)
Duration
Private Bookings are 3 hours in total and Sauna Club 2.5 hours.
Read more: untitled post 1201FAQ
Is Snow Angel Hill a Spa?
No. SAH is a place to improve health and wellness by slowly increasing exposure to hot and cold. We consider the sauna and cold exposure like a form of exercise and research supports this. You will not find facials and massages here, but you will find a hotwood sauna, lots of access to cold water, and hopefully snow to walk and roll in.
What should I bring?
We provide towels and crocs, soap and shampoo, you are welcome to bring your own soaps and bathroom gear, but please do not bring any oils or scrubs inside our sauna. Bring warm clothes and footwear that you can take through the snow when you arrive for a walk outdoors.
Are there showers and amenities?
Yes, the sauna is located in downstairs of house so there are hot/cold showers, a bathroom, and a changing area.
Can I take pictures and videos?
No. As much as there is the temptation to document everything in our lives we want to keep SAH an Offline Zone. We find that the sauna is much more relaxing if you take time away from your devices and focus on the immediacy of the experience. Also, we exist on a private property so we want to respect the privacy of residents.
Should I eat before sauna?
We recommend treating sauna like exercise. Make sure you have a light meal at least 2 hours prior but abstain from a big meal near sauna time. You will likely feel hungry after.
Will my group be in privacy during the whole visit?
No. We will welcome you and take a short walk as well as explain the services, amenities, and process.
During the sauna we will come in to check the fire and manage temperature. This is necessary from both a safety and maintaining a good sauna temperature.
We do want to keep interruptions to a minimum so we will likely wait until you exit the sauna for a cold break before checking the fire and cleaning if necessary.
What can I bring in the sauna?
You just need a small towel to sit on (we provide). We recommend you hydrate before arriving and during cold breaks.
*Water bottles, crocs, sandals, and other items should be left outside the sauna.
Should I wear a swimming suit?
This part is optional. We recommend that you wear swimmers for outdoor activities like snow-rolling. 🙂
Is sauna safe?
Yes, sauna is safe for most populations provided you stay hydrated, listen to your body, and follow general safety guidelines. In fact, sauna has many health benefits. Read more here.
What is a Sauna Party?
An event which usually takes place in winter involving sauna sessions, cold dips and DJ/Music. There may be laughs, dancing, and generally enjoyment. Some say it is a ‘supercharged’ sauna experience.
Can I bring my children ?
Yes, for all sauna bookings (except Sauna Club) Kids are welcome provided they are older than 10 and have adult supervision during time in the sauna. We encourage families to teach children about body temperature regulation and we find the sauna is a great tool for this.
Will there be alcohol?
No, due to the risk of dehydration we do not serve alcohol, but we have an assortment of non-alcoholic beer, coffee, tea, and cold water.
Do I need to shower before entering sauna?
Yes, this keeps everything cleaner, and we ask all guests to have a shower before entering.
Can I bring essential oils for the sauna?
No. We have many groups using the sauna and we want to preserve the natural smells for the best possible experience.
I am afraid of cold water; do I need to do an ice dip?
No. There is no pressure to do anything. We do encourage guests to slowly push their limits with cold as we believe this generates the best results. We recommend starting wherever you are and slowly building up tolerance.
For example: someone very new to cold immersion could start by standing outside after the sauna for a few minutes to cool off and then progress to using a very cold shower. Someone more experienced with cold could go for a snow roll and then jump in the ice bath. We are happy to guide this process.
Do I need to stay in the sauna for the full 15 minutes if I feel too hot?
No. We encourage people who feel too hot to sit on the lower bench. If it is still too hot, then they can take rests as needed outside the sauna . Build up your tolerance to heat slowly.
Will there be snacks and drinks?
Yes. For all private bookings there will be snacks. There will also be drinks available throughout session. There may be nuts so please let us know if you have any allergies ahead of time. For sauna club and Sauna Parties we will have an assortement of non-alcoholic drinks available.
Snow Angel Hill 