Guides

Plain-language guides to saunas, banyas, Korean spas, contrast therapy and cold plunges: how they work, what to expect and where to try them.

• Banya vs. Korean Spa vs. Finnish Sauna: What's the Difference?: How a Russian banya, a Korean spa (jjimjilbang) and a Finnish sauna differ in heat, humidity, clothing and ritual, and where to try each in US cities.
• How Contrast Therapy Works (and How to Do Your First Session): What contrast therapy is, how a hot-cold session is usually structured, safety basics, and where to find sauna and cold plunge studios in US cities.
• Cold Plunge Temperatures Explained: What temperature a cold plunge should be, how long to stay in for beginners and regulars, and the difference between plunge tubs, cold pools and cryotherapy.
• Sauna Etiquette for First-Timers: What to bring, what to wear and the unwritten rules of saunas, bathhouses, banyas and Korean spas, so your first visit feels easy.