City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More

Featured Article

The Heart of Banya

A Tradition of Wellness, Reimagined for the Pacific Northwest

A practice rooted in centuries of Slavic tradition and revived for modern wellness seekers, Banya invites guests to experience the timeless ritual of Eastern European sauna culture in the heart of Everett. 

The Heart of Banya: Ritual, Community, and Renewal

At Banya, health, relaxation, and connection go hand in hand. The ritual follows a simple yet powerful cycle: sweat, plunge, rest, and repeat. It’s a rhythm designed to awaken circulation,  and release stress, and create space for reflection or lively conversation. Unlike silent spa environments, Banya encourages camaraderie. Guests come together to unwind, socialize, and share in the ancient art of wellness.

Traditional European Sauna: Detox and Deep Relaxation

The centerpiece of the Banya experience is the Traditional European Sauna, a wood-fired, dry heat environment designed to purify the body and calm the mind. The combination of high heat (160°F–200°F) and natural wood creates a deeply cleansing atmosphere that promotes improved circulation, relaxes muscles and joints, and encourages detoxification as the body releases impurities through sweat. Regular sauna use can also enhance skin health by increasing collagen production and shedding dead cells, leaving the skin refreshed and revitalized.

Beyond its physical effects, the sauna offers powerful mental and emotional benefits. The steady heat helps reduce stress, lower cortisol levels, and promote deeper, more restorative sleep. Many guests also experience a boost in cardiovascular health, as the body adapts to the gentle increase in heart rate and blood flow. Each sauna session is typically followed by a cool rinse or cold plunge to awaken the senses and stimulate recovery.

The Cold Plunge: Revive, Restore, and Reset

Few wellness practices are as invigorating as the cold plunge pool. Immersing in water between 45°F–55°F awakens the nervous system and delivers an instant endorphin boost, creating a feeling of alertness and renewal. The sharp contrast between heat and cold promotes increased circulation, strengthens cardiovascular function, and helps reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. Regular cold immersion also supports the immune system through the body’s adaptive response while enhancing mental clarity and resilience. This powerful combination of sauna and plunge, known as contrast therapy, has been practiced for centuries to strengthen the body, sharpen the mind, and elevate mood.

Infrared Red Light Sauna: Cellular Healing from Within

For a modern take on ancient heat therapy, Banya offers the red light sauna, where gentle infrared wavelengths penetrate deep into skin and tissue. This therapy supports cellular repair, boosts collagen production, eases joint and muscle pain, and helps detoxify at a cellular level. It’s a quiet, radiant space ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Steam, Soak, and Serenity

Beyond heat and cold, Banya also features a wet steam room and jacuzzi for a full-spectrum hydrotherapy experience. Steam sessions ease respiratory tension, clear sinuses, and promote glowing skin, while the jacuzzi’s gentle jets improve circulation and melt away muscle stiffness.

Optional eucalyptus infusions and herbal teas add a sensory element that complements the physical benefits, turning each visit into a holistic escape for body and mind.

A Modern Gathering Place with Ancient Roots

At its core, Banya isn’t just about physical renewal, it’s about connection. Whether guests come to unwind after work, recover after training, or simply share good food and conversation, the experience is both energizing and grounding.

Banya’s mission is simple: to bring the restorative power of Eastern European sauna culture to the Pacific Northwest, honoring the traditions that have supported health and community for generations.

To experience the full cycle of heat, cold, rest, and renewal, book a visit at https://banyabyfgm.com