FAQs
General FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
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Where is Wild Ritual located?
Wild Ritual is located in Dunure Harbour, Ayrshire. The best postcode to locate the sauna is KA7 4LN
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Is parking available at your locations?
Parking is available in Kennedy Park, next to Dunure Castle, and is a short 5-minute walk to the sauna. 19 Castle Rd, Dunure, Ayr KA7 4LW.
There may be limited street parking adjacent to the harbour for early morning and evening sessions.
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What should I bring to my sauna session?
To ensure a comfortable experience, please bring:
· A towel to sit on inside the sauna.
· Plenty of drinking water to stay hydrated.
· Swimwear (mandatory for all sessions).
· Flip-flops or water shoes, especially if you plan to cool off in natural water sources.
· A second towel or changing robe for after your session.
· Warm, easy-to-change-into clothing for post-session comfort.
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Are there changing facilities available?
As a wild sauna, we do not have permanent changing facilities. We recommend arriving dressed in your swimwear and bringing a changing robe or towel for discretion when changing after your session.
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Is there an age limit for participants?
Yes, participants must be 16 years or older to book a session with Wild Ritual.
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Can I swim in natural water sources during my session?
The sauna sits adjacent to the slipway in the harbour where there is always water available, the level, of course, depends on the tide and can fluctuate from 0.8 m to above 4 m. At high tide, the water can be as close as 14 steps from the sauna.
Freshwater buckets and cold-water showers are also available.
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Do you provide drinking water?
We do not provide drinking water on-site. Please bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout your session.
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What can I expect during my sauna session?
A typical session involves alternating periods of heat exposure in the sauna and cooling off outside. We recommend spending no more than 15 minutes in the sauna at a time, followed by a cool-down period. Cooling methods can include sitting outside, using provided water for rinsing, or taking a dip in natural water sources if available.
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Is Wild Ritual accessible for individuals with disabilities?
The design of the sauna does not accommodate wheelchair access, we do have steps and a handrail which provides support and aids stability. We are committed to inclusivity and recommend contacting us directly to discuss any specific access requirements or concerns.
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What is the Cancellation & No-Show Policy?
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Shared Sauna Sessions
· 72+ hours’ notice: Full refund or credit (valid for 3 months).
· Less than 48 hours’ notice: Reschedule only (subject to availability, valid for 3 months).
· Less than 24 hours’ notice / No-show:Full payment taken, no refund or reschedule.​
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Private Sauna Sessions
· More than 14 days’ notice: Full refund or reschedule (valid for 3 months).
· More than 7 days’ notice: 50% refund or reschedule (subject to availability, valid for 3 months).
· Less than 7 days’ notice / No-show:Full payment taken, no refund or reschedule.
Health & Illness
For the comfort and safety of all guests, please do not attend if you are unwell (e.g. cough, cold, flu-like symptoms, or high temperature). If you arrive unwell, we reserve the right to deny entry in line with the policy above.
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How can I contact Wild Ritual for more information?
For additional questions or information, please reach out to us at info@wildritualsauna.co.uk.
Sauna FAQs
Sauna Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a sauna?
A sauna is a heated room designed to promote relaxation and well-being, using dry heat to create a warm and invigorating atmosphere. Saunas are an ancient tradition, with origins in Northern Europe, particularly Finland, where they are deeply ingrained in the culture.
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How does the sauna work?
Saunas work by heating the air inside the room to high temperatures. At Wild Ritual, we use a traditional wood-burning stove to heat sauna rocks. Your sauna master will periodically apply a small amount of scented water onto the hot rocks, creating steam, known as "löyly" in Finnish. This adds humidity to the air and enhances the heat’s effect.
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How many people can your sauna accommodate?
Our wood-fired sauna can comfortably seat 8 people.
What are the benefits of using a sauna?
Regular sauna use has numerous health benefits, including relief from muscle tension, promotion of relaxation, and improvement in cardiovascular health, metabolic rate, insulin sensitivity, and physical performance. It can also enhance sleep quality, reduce stress, and alleviate anxiety. However, individual health considerations and tolerance levels are important. We recommend consulting a healthcare professional if you have any pre-existing conditions.
How often should I use the sauna each week?
The ideal frequency depends on personal preference and tolerance. Many experts suggest 2 to 4 sessions per week for general health benefits. Interestingly, studies have shown that men who use saunas 2 to 3 times per week reduce their cardiovascular mortality risk by 30%, while those attending 4 or more sessions per week reduce this risk by 50%.
How long should I stay in the sauna?
Sauna sessions typically last between 5 and 20 minutes, depending on your comfort level. It’s vital to listen to your body and adjust the duration accordingly. Always stay hydrated. Research suggests that a session of around 45 minutes may provide significant health benefits.
What is the ideal temperature of a sauna?
Saunas are usually maintained at temperatures between 80°C and 90°C. Studies indicate that temperatures below 70°C may not provide the full range of health benefits.
Can anyone use a sauna?
While saunas are safe for most people, those with certain health conditions, such as cardiovascular issues, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or other medical concerns, should consult a healthcare professional before use. Sauna sessions are only available to individuals aged 16 or over.
Can I use a sauna if I have respiratory issues?
If you have a respiratory condition, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before using a sauna.
Can I use a sauna if I’m pregnant?
It is generally advised to avoid sauna use during pregnancy. Always seek professional medical advice before deciding.
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Cold Plunge FAQs
What is a cold plunge?
A cold plunge involves immersing your body in cold water, either in a pool, tub, or natural body of water such as a river, loch, or the sea. It is often used in conjunction with sauna sessions as part of contrast therapy, which alternates between hot and cold temperatures.
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What are the benefits of a cold plunge?
Cold water immersion offers numerous benefits, including improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and faster recovery for muscles. It can also enhance mental clarity, build resilience, and promote a sense of well-being.
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Can anyone use a cold plunge?
Most people can enjoy a cold plunge, but if you have medical conditions such as heart problems, Raynaud’s disease, or other health concerns, you should seek advice from a healthcare professional before participating.
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How long should I stay in the cold plunge?
The duration of a cold plunge varies by individual tolerance, but sessions generally last 1 to 3 minutes. It’s crucial to listen to your body and exit the water if you feel uncomfortable.
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Is cold water immersion safe?
When done correctly, cold water immersion is safe for most individuals. However, participants should always proceed with caution and follow guidelines to avoid risks such as hypothermia or shock. If you’re new to this practice, start gradually and build your tolerance over time.