Imagine stepping into a world where ancient traditions meet modern wellness, all while gazing at the breathtaking Jurassic Coast. This is no ordinary spa day—it’s a transformative journey led by a sauna master whose work is nothing short of legendary. Meet Nick Tettersell, or ‘Nick T,’ a name that resonates deeply within the sauna community. Fresh off his win as Best Sauna Practitioner at the British Sauna Society Sauna Summit 2025, Nick has cultivated a dedicated following, both online and in person, for his unique blend of Lithuanian and Finnish sauna techniques. But here’s where it gets intriguing: his sessions aren’t just about heat and steam—they’re a holistic ritual designed to heal body and mind.
I’ve experienced my fair share of saunas paired with chilly sea dips, but nothing prepared me for a ‘sauna ritual’ guided by a master like Nick. When Louise Roberts, the visionary behind Shoreline Sauna in Lyme Regis, invited me to join one of his sessions, I jumped at the chance. Nestled by the Cobb, this barrel-shaped, wood-fired sauna offers more than just stunning views—it’s a gateway to a two-hour immersion in Lithuanian Pirtis techniques. Think hot and cold rounds, breathwork, body scrubs, and the mesmerizing art of whisking with foraged botanicals.
And this is the part most people miss: the sauna itself is a masterpiece of location. Perched along the Jurassic Coast, it provides a sandy path straight to the sea for those daring enough to plunge into the briny waters. Not a sea dip fan? No worries—there’s a plunge bath right beside the sauna. Arriving early, I found Nick meticulously preparing leaf whisks from locally foraged elderflowers, fern, oak, and birch. These aren’t just tools; they’re a sensory bridge to nature, a cornerstone of Lithuanian sauna tradition.
Nick’s journey to becoming a sauna master is as fascinating as the rituals he leads. Based in Cornwall, he transitioned from tree surgery to holistic wellbeing over a decade ago, initially training as a massage therapist. It was through cold water therapy—sea swimming, ice baths, and showers—that he discovered the sauna’s profound healing potential. Trained by the Lithuanian Bath Academy and later as a Sauna Healer in Finland, Nick seamlessly blends these traditions into his sessions. But here’s the controversial bit: while many view saunas as mere relaxation tools, Nick sees them as a catalyst for emotional release, even calling one phase ‘sweating the shame.’ Is this just New Age hype, or is there something deeper at play? Let’s discuss in the comments.
The ritual itself is a symphony of elements—fire, water, earth, and air—each guiding us through meditation, whisking, and scrubs. Nick’s lilac and Portland salt scrub, paired with an invigorating coffee scrub, left us glowing. Seasonal variations ensure no two sessions are alike, and yes, there are Finnish sauna songs to sing along to (whether you’re a shower singer or not).
Our group of six—a mix of newcomers and regulars—quickly shed inhibitions as we moved from the sauna’s honeyed elderflower aroma to the bracing June sea. Nick’s gentle guidance made even the coldest dips feel exhilarating. By the end, we were whisking, scrubbing, and laughing like old friends. The final touch? A herbal infusion crafted by Nick, leaving us relaxed, rejuvenated, and undeniably glowing.
Here’s the real question: Can a sauna ritual truly heal? After the deepest sleep I’ve had in months, I’m convinced. Nick’s intuitive approach and passion for sauna’s benefits have earned him a fan in me. But what about you? Is this just a trendy wellness fad, or is there genuine science—and soul—behind it? Share your thoughts below.
Ready to experience it yourself? Shoreline Sauna is open Thursday to Sunday, 8:30 am to 9 pm, with special hours for bank holidays and full moons. Prices range from £15 for a communal session to £120 for private hire. Follow Nick on Instagram (@nickttherapies) and Facebook (@NickTTherapies) to dive deeper into his world. Let’s book it—your mind, body, and spirit will thank you.
