Photo: James MacKay/WBZ NewsRadio
HULL, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Every morning, a wood-fired sauna sits on the sands of Nantasket Beach in Hull. The juxtaposition of the hot sauna and cold ocean may seem unusual, but Karen LaFond, the woman behind Respiro Sauna Co., said that's the point.
"It's all about contrast therapy. Getting a little hot in the sauna over here and getting a little cold in the water," LaFond said.
Jumping into frigid water from a hot place, like a sauna, is a common wellness trend. Experts say it can help with muscle tension and pain, among other benefits, at least in the short term, according to the American Medical Association.
"When you're in the sauna, your body is smart and knows what to do. It is absorbing the heat and allows you to sweat out those toxins," LaFond said.
Saunas on their own have also been said to have a bevy of health benefits. According to Cleveland Clinic, that can include stress reduction, improved cardiovascular health, and a boost to the immune system. But, experts warn there are some risk factors, including dehydration.
LaFond said it goes beyond the health benefits. It's also about bringing the community together. In an Instagram post, LaFond called it a "community rooted in health, wellness, connection, resilience, and longevity."
The sauna is open every morning from 5:30 to 9:30 a.m., with some evening availability Wednesday to Saturday. It costs $40 per 50 minutes.
WBZ NewsRadio’s Jim MacKay (@JimMacKayOnAir) reports.