Question 1

What is Elahni?

Accepted Answer

Elahni is a first of its kind Wellness Speakeasy®. As a private, immersive space designed for deep restoration, we blend the timeless practice of Temperature Contrast — through a traditional Finnish sauna and ice baths — with an adaptogenic tonic bar and a curated library, creating an atmosphere that invites both stillness and connection.

Question 2

Is this contrast therapy?

Accepted Answer

We call what we do Temperature Contrast, a guided experience alternating Finnish sauna at 180°F and ice bath immersion at 39°F. While the practice shares roots with contrast therapy, our approach is different: every session is hosted and guided, limited to four guests, and designed around nervous system restoration rather than physical recovery alone. If you're searching for contrast therapy in NYC, this is what it looks like when the experience is built from first principles.

Question 3

What is Temperature Contrast?

Accepted Answer

Temperature Contrast is Elahni's guided practice of alternating between extreme heat (Finnish sauna at approximately 180°F) and cold immersion (ice bath at 39°F) across three intentional rounds. Each session includes breathing guidance, aromatherapy, and adaptogenic beverages. The practice trains your nervous system to move between states of activation and recovery with greater ease, building resilience that extends beyond the session into daily life.

Question 4

Is Elahni a self-guided experience?

Accepted Answer

No, Elahni is not a free-flow space. Our sessions are thoughtfully facilitated to create a structured and intentional journey. This ensures every guest experiences the full restorative benefits of our practices. As such, it is important each guest arrives at least 5, ideally 10, minutes early.

Question 5

What does a typical session at Elahni include?

Accepted Answer

Each Temperature Contrast session blends aromatherapy-infused heat exposure, ice bath immersions, and moments of stillness. You'll also have access to our adaptogenic tonic bar and curated library, all within an intimate setting designed for reflection and renewal.

Question 6

What are the benefits?

Accepted Answer

Temperature Contrast at Elahni supports nervous system regulation, improved sleep quality, more stable energy levels, faster physical recovery, and a calmer stress response. The alternation between heat and cold trains your autonomic nervous system to shift between activation and rest more efficiently. Over time, your capacity to stay composed through challenging experiences deepens.

Question 7

How many people are in a session?

Accepted Answer

A maximum of four. This is intentional. Our intimate scale creates the conditions for psychological safety, authentic connection, and the kind of nervous system downregulation that large group settings cannot provide.

Question 8

When should I arrive?

Accepted Answer

To honor the experience for everyone, our doors close 10 minutes after each session begins. Please plan to arrive a few minutes early to settle in. If you arrive later than this window, entry cannot be guaranteed.

Question 9

Do I need prior experience with saunas or ice baths?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! Our guided sessions are designed for all experience levels. Our hosts will support you throughout, offering guidance and modifications to ensure your comfort and safety.

Question 10

What should I bring to my session?

Accepted Answer

We provide towels & have lockers & showers available. We recommend bringing a swimsuit and a water bottle. Minimalist, comfortable clothing is ideal for both the sauna and ice baths.

Question 11

Do you have showers?

Accepted Answer

Yes we have men's and women's locker room with showers, hairdryers, etc.

Question 12

How long is each session?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are 70 minutes, however please allow allow a little more time after for changing & having a drink at our tea & tonic bar.

Question 13

Can I book a private session?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer private bookings for individuals or small groups looking for a more personalized experience. Please contact us directly for availability and pricing: team@elahni.com

Question 14

Is Elahni suitable for people with health conditions?

Accepted Answer

If you have any health concerns, especially related to cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, we recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before participating. Please let our team know of any concerns so we can best support you.

Question 15

Is there an age limit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all guest must be at least 18 years of age.

Question 16

Do you allow walk-ins?

Accepted Answer

No, all sessions must be booked in advance. please see our reservations page or email for more info.

Question 17

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance will receive a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable due to our intimate session sizes.

Question 18

How is Elahni different from a bathhouse or spa?

Accepted Answer

Elahni is not a spa or bathhouse. We're a wellness studio focused on nervous system health through guided Temperature Contrast. Sessions are limited to four guests. Every session is actively guided by a host. The experience is designed around interoceptive awareness, training your ability to sense and regulate your internal state. We call ourselves a wellness speakeasy because the space is intimate, intentionally hidden, and designed for depth over volume.

Question 19

Where is Elahni located?

Accepted Answer

12 W 27th St, Floor 2, NoMad, Manhattan. The entrance is intentionally discreet. We share exact arrival details when you book. No walk-ins; all sessions are by reservation only.

FAQ