Earl of East and Arc Sauna have partnered for two guided sauna sessions exploring the connection between scent, steam and sensory ritual through the worlds of Shinrin-Yoku and Onsen.
Designed around the therapeutic power of fragrance within hot and cold spaces, the sessions explore how scent can help shape atmosphere, influence mood and support moments of grounding, recovery and reset
Within a sauna environment, heat intensifies fragrance, allowing essential oils and incense to move more deeply through the space and encouraging slower breathing and greater sensory awareness.
Grounding Rituals: Shinrin-Yoku
Inspired by the Japanese practice of forest bathing, Shinrin-Yoku is designed to create a calming, grounding atmosphere through a blend of cedarwood, oakmoss and black pepper.
Cedarwood brings warm, woody depth often associated with calm and stillness, while oakmoss adds an earthy softness that evokes damp forest air after rain. Black pepper introduces subtle spice to help deepen the sensory experience within the heat of the sauna.
Used during slower moments of the sessions, Shinrin-Yoku is designed to support relaxation, mindfulness and nervous system reset.
TAKE THE RITUAL HOME
Awakening Rituals: Onsen
Influenced by Japanese hot springs and recovery rituals, Onsen combines eucalyptus, peppermint and mandarin to create a brighter, more invigorating atmosphere.
Eucalyptus and peppermint are traditionally used within steam environments for their cooling, clarifying qualities, helping the space feel fresher and more awakening through heat and breathwork. Mandarin brings a softer citrus note designed to uplift mood and energise the senses.
Used throughout moments of heat exposure, cold immersion and recovery, Onsen is designed to feel cleansing, restorative and revitalising.