Our olfactory system is finely tuned to detect volatile chemical components in the air, translating them to chemical and electrical signals within the brain. Forming part of the limbic system, our olfactory bulb communicates these messenger signals directly to both the emotional centre (the amygdala), and the hipocampus (associated learning) to create either a new smell association or works to trigger a conditioned response to a scent previously encountered.

It is these conditioned responses which have us responding either positively – inducing feelings of pleasure, enjoyment, relaxation, happiness etc or negatively creating a sense of repulsion, dread, unhappiness. The memories associated with scent can be subliminal in nature producing only a perceived emotional response but in reality, it is the subconscious mechanism tying emotion, association and conditioning together to create the physical and psychological responses we encounter.

The link between memory and odour is incredibly strong as demonstrated when we encounter smells from childhood; the ever familiar scent of lavender may remind some of us of a much loved great aunt whilst others a strongly disliked distant relative, the emotional response experienced is created by the conditioned responses encountered much earlier in life. Our brain processes odours in such a way as to be indelibly printed, never to be lost, even when the source of conditioning to such odours has long been forgotten.

Scent is in itself a powerful tool for inducing a state of calm relaxation or for delivering an energy boosting pick me up when needed, so it no surprise that our use of herbs, flowers and oils to enhance the sauna and steam bathing process has a long standing history.

High quality naturally derived essences and oil concentrates used within the sauna and steam room create not only a mood enhancing environment but can have physiological benefits too.

With Autumn now in full swing essences such Lavender, Lemon, Peppermint and Eucalyptus will be beneficial in staving off cold inducing germs whist clearing foggy heads and stuffy noses. However, if you are looking for alternatives to the usual seasonal essences try Sandalwood, Chamomile, Orange and Mandarin which will soothe tight chests and calm those frazzled Christmas planning nerves.

The use of essence as a tool within the bathing environment will create a welcoming and inviting space helping to enhance the mood and physical wellbeing of the bather. Talk to your clients to discover odour biases and tailor the environment to meet the needs of your guests in turn helping to create positive, mood enhancing emotional responses and those feel good connections!

Inspect hinges , handles and door seals and repair or replace as nececessary. Loose hinges and damaged seals allow heat or moisture to escape increasing the time needed for the cabin to reach and indeed to maintain its optimum operating environment. Oil and tighten screw regularly and check seals for any signs of wear and tear.

Sauna sensors and bulbs can be subject to less than favourable water ingress from clients who are a little too vigorous with the raponsing bucket. Check weekly and keep stocks on site to avoid unnecessary cabin closures or downtime. It’s also good practice to check over the bench supports and structures, maintaining where required.  

Steam Generating equipment is easily checked, cleaned and maintained. In fact, our generators have removable key parts which require regular replacement for efficient output. How regular will depend on level of use. A cabin which runs continually for 18 hours a day, 7 days a week will require mini services quarterly while a cabin situated in private residence will need only an annual service.  

Developing a suitable routine is key. Operating an efficient maintenance schedule takes very little time yet offers long term cabin efficiency. Don’t forget to talk to our team, we are only a click or call away and can offer advice, answer those maintenance questions or send over manuals as needed.