An Unforgettable Sauna Experience at Dorset's Coastal Sauna
Embark on a journey to the enchanting Shoreline Sauna in Lyme Regis, where the art of sauna meets the beauty of the Jurassic Coast. Led by the renowned sauna master, Nick Tettersell, or Nick T as he's affectionately known, this two-hour ritual is a fusion of Lithuanian Pirtis techniques, including hot and cold rounds, breathwork, body scrubs, and leaf whisking. Prepare for a sensory adventure that will leave you rejuvenated and eager to return.
Nick T, a former tree surgeon turned holistic wellbeing practitioner, has an impressive background. He initially trained as a massage therapist before delving into sauna practices, discovering their healing powers through sea swimming, ice baths, and cold showers. With a wealth of experience from both Lithuanian and Finnish sauna cultures, Nick has trained at the Lithuanian Bath Academy and completed Sauna Healer training with Sipoonjoki Heritage Sauna in Finland. His expertise and passion for sauna rituals have earned him a dedicated following on social media.
The Shoreline Sauna itself is a picturesque barrel-shaped wood-fired sauna, nestled along the Jurassic Coast. It boasts a sandy beach nearby, offering a refreshing sea dip after the sauna session. For those who prefer a more controlled environment, a plunge bath is available nearby.
Upon arriving early for the ritual, Nick was busy preparing the leaf whisks, a traditional Lithuanian practice. He foraged locally for elderflowers, fern, oak, and birch, infusing the sauna with the forest's essence. These whisks, made from natural materials, create a captivating atmosphere, connecting the sauna-goers with nature.
Nick's ritual session is a well-structured affair, divided into four parts, each guided by the elements: fire, water, earth, and air. He skillfully leads the group through meditation, leaf whisking, body scrubs, and more, ensuring a transformative experience.
The ritual begins with a sweating session, where participants 'sweat the shame' as Nick humorously puts it. The temperature gradually rises, allowing the body to release toxins and promote relaxation. Nick's gentle voice and the air filled with the scent of elderflowers create a serene atmosphere. The session then transitions to a bracing sea dip, followed by a refreshing body scrub, using lilac from Louise's garden and Portland salt, or an invigorating coffee scrub with coffee grounds.
As the ritual unfolds, inhibitions melt away, and participants embrace the elements. Nick encourages everyone to join in the 'sauna songs' in Finnish, adding a playful touch to the experience. The session culminates in a final scrub with sugar and coffee grounds, transforming the sauna into a cozy coffee shop ambiance.
The ritual concludes with a dip in the sea and a refreshing rinse in freshwater. Nick then prepares a herbal infusion, created specifically for the session, allowing participants to reflect and rehydrate. The experience leaves attendees feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and glowing, with many praising Nick's intuitive guidance and passion for sauna's benefits.
Shoreline Sauna in Lyme Regis is open Thursday to Sunday from 8:30 am to 9 pm, accommodating bank holidays and special events. With a capacity for six people, the communal seat costs £15, while packages of 5 or 10 sessions offer great value. Private hire is also available for £60 for an hour or £120 for two hours. For more information, follow Nick on Instagram @nickttherapies or Facebook @NickTTherapies.
