Midsummer Eve Sauna Ritual

Join us for a traditional Midsummer Eve Sauna Ritual!

Sauna for our Nordic ancestors was a holy event. This was a practice steeped with intention and reverence for the healing and purification abilities held within the sauna itself. Songs were sung, offerings were given, prayers were made, and the elements were venerated. On the eve of Midsummer (summer solstice) we will come together as our ancestors did with the intention of seeking healing for ourselves and the collective within the four walls of the sauna. We'll also turn our hearts to the sun, readying ourselves for the return Summer.

This event is co-ed and clothing optional, 18+. Modesty must be upheld when outside of the sauna or cold plunge area.

What to Expect: Upon arrival you'll meet Ida in the Lobby located through the back basement door. She'll show you where to undress and tell you how to prepare. She'll then guide you and the group through the entire sauna ritual. The ritual will include a song, offerings to the Tomte/Tontu (a gnome-like land spirit that tends to and protects the sauna), working directly with the elements, and formulating individual and collective prayers. After the ritual is complete, we'll take adequate time to rest and then enjoy some time around the fire to integrate our work together.

What is a Nordic Sauna? Nordic Sauna is a process of 15 minutes in the hot sauna (165°F - 200°F) followed by either a cold water plunge or dousing which is then repeated 2-3 more times depending on tolerance. The entire process takes approximately 75 minutes to complete. A sauna whisk made of birch, oak, or eucalyptus is used to gently beat and whisk the body to encourage circulation and blood flow while offering protection and purification. (Whisks are available for purchase when in stock)

About the Amenities: Our sauna is located in an urban backyard within the heart of Clackamas County. The sauna itself is a 10x10ft tent style sauna with cedar benches and a wood-fired stove. The cold plunge area is an open air pergola with privacy curtains containing two claw foot tubs and a shower. There are several outdoor lounging areas great for relaxing and cooling off, including a covered gazebo. Weather and seasonally permitting, we’ll have a fire going in the fire pit for our guests to enjoy.

Located inside is a welcoming lobby with plenty of storage and hooks for your belongings. There’s a half bath adjacent to the lobby (no shower available). Beyond the lobby you’ll find “The Cave”; a cozy 150 sq ft room full of ambiance that will transport you to another place and time. The cave will be open to guests who would like to lay down to rest and/or stretch during their stay. Yoga mats and props available.

How to Prepare: Please arrive recently showered and well hydrated. It’s recommended that you have at least 16oz of water prior to arrival and continue hydrating throughout your sauna session. Abstain from alcohol the day of. Eat lightly/avoid being overly full prior to sauna.

What to Bring:

• An offering for the Tomte (flowers, spirits, beer, bread, porridge, fruit, and/or honey)
• Water bottle
• A towel
• Slip on shoes
• Swim suit, tank & shorts, or sarong (sarongs available on site)
• Bathrobe (optional)
• A sauna hat & whisk (if you own one)

What NOT to wear:

• Body lotions, oils, or perfumes
• Metal jewelry
• Glasses

Benefits of Nordic Sauna:

Improved circulation

• The heat from a sauna dilates blood vessels, which improves circulation and oxygenation
• The cold water after a sauna makes blood vessels contract, which helps return blood to vital organs

Pain relief and recovery

• The heat and cold of a sauna and cold plunge pool can help reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery
• The combination of heat and cold is called contrast therapy

Stronger immune system

• Nordic saunas can help detoxify the body and improve the immune system

Other benefits

• Lower blood pressure
• Strengthen the cardiovascular system
• Improve mood and reduce stress
• Reduce swelling
• Improve endurance
• Prevent dementia and Alzheimer's

When: Friday 6/20 from 6:30-9pm

Location: Caveside Wellness

525 E Fairfield St.

Gladstone, OR 97027

Cost: $50 per person

light snacks & refreshments provided around the fire

If you'd like to bipass Eventbrite's fees, you may send an email to idacavewoman@gmail.com to reserve your spot and then send your payment via Venmo or Paypal using the link below.

www.idacavewoman.com/payments

Liability Waiver: You must complete this waiver prior to using the sauna for your first time. https://forms.gle/FwU8ZSeCYgyFgkHU7