Spas have long been touted as places where you can relax and unwind. Also known as bathhouses, they are a staple of many cultures from Greece to Korea. However, Korean spas are unlike any spa you have been to before. These traditional spas or jjimjilbangs offer an experience that can be pretty overwhelming for many. For the K-spa novice, here’s what to expect.
Nudity
Korean massage spas are a no-clothes zone, except for the coed areas. Having to go naked in front of strangers can be weird, awkward, and downright scary. You might be tempted to stay covered up, but you have to overcome it and own it; besides, it’s a great chance to embrace body positivity.
Being naked, you might feel shy, especially when you make eye contact with someone else. However, despite being in a brightly lit room with other naked people, there’s no need to keep your eyes glued to the floor. They are just bodies; don’t overthink it.
Sauna varieties
Korean spas have a hot room for everything that might be ailing you. Do you have arthritis, why not try the jade sauna? In need of respiratory purification? Book a session in the salt sauna. Want some heavy metal detoxification? Try the clay room.
However, some saunas are intense, so know your limits. Pay attention to your body, and don’t stay too long in one sauna. Also, stay hydrated and take things slow. Try spending 10 to 20 minutes per sauna and at temperatures you can stand.
Leave your phone behind
This is a time to relax not catch up with what’s trending on social media. So, leave your phone in your locker. Also, it’s weird having it around while everyone else is naked, plus water and high temperatures don’t mix well with tech.
Korean spa-ing is the utmost test in confidence, and while there are a few rules to observe, do you. It’s a judgment-free zone, so kick back, relax, and don’t forget to get that body scrub Grand Spa.