
In recent years, there has been a notable rise in sober culture and a growing focus on health and wellness, particularly in the renewed interest in saunas. Saunas have existed for thousands of years, originating in Finnish culture. Historically, they served not only as places for cleansing but also for giving birth, healing, and even spiritual rituals. According to the British Sauna Society, the number of Finnish-style saunas in the UK doubled between early 2023 and 2024, rising from 45 to 90, with projections suggesting this number could exceed 200 by 2025. Today, saunas are making a comeback as spaces for community building, an activity outside of drinking and improving our health and wellbeing. As people seek more in-person experiences that don’t involve smartphones, saunas offer a unique and meaningful alternative. They provide numerous health benefits and are often a more affordable and restorative option than going to the pub.
Have you heard of Infrared Sauna Pods? I hadn’t, until recently. That changed when I discovered Allison Huff, who is redefining wellness with her flagship infrared light therapy studio, Sweat Lounge, in Chiswick, London. I had the pleasure of experiencing her Infrared Sauna Pod first hand and now I understand why it’s being hailed as a game changer in the industry.