Warming Up on the Lakefront on a Cold Winter Day
On a chilly January Saturday, I layered up in my full-length black mink coat to brave North Avenue Beach, but little did anyone know that it was just the beginning of my winter warmth quest. The icy breeze quickly gave way to an unexpected respite as I shed layers for shorts and a T-shirt, shedding my cold exterior to reveal a more relaxed, inner self.
Inside the Fire and Ice Sauna Experience, located on the lakefront, temperatures soared to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. For owner Matt Obal, this was more than just a novelty - it was a meditation technique that brought him peace. "It's like your endorphins are rushing," he explained. "You go in without a phone and focus on your breath work; it just feels good after you come out." The science behind it is simple: heat releases natural painkillers, also known as endorphins, which leave users feeling invigorated.
Obal's entrepreneurial spirit was sparked during the pandemic when customers began asking for at-home saunas. He saw an opportunity to expand his Thunder Domes business into a mobile sauna experience that catered to Chicagoans seeking a winter escape from the cold. "I couldn't think of any other winter activity besides ice skating," he said, highlighting the city's limited options.
The Fire and Ice Sauna Experience is part of a growing trend in Chicago's lakefront offering unique respite from the chill. With temperatures plummeting to 15 degrees Fahrenheit on that January afternoon, this winter wonderland proved just what was needed: a warm haven for the soul. As I stood outside, sipping hot tea under layers of fur and hat, the city skyline glistened in the distance.
While some opt for cozy indoor retreats, others find solace in nature's chill. For those willing to brave the cold, outdoor activities like ice skating or winter hiking offer a refreshing change from the ordinary routine. Fire and Ice Sauna Experience marks an exciting development in Chicago's beach scene, providing another reason to visit during the often-overlooked winter months.
The author spent 20 minutes in the sauna before taking a dip in cold water, only to find herself invigorated and refreshed - much like the endorphins that help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and provide pain relief. As I watched groups come and go, some bundled up for outdoor activities while others, like me, sought warmth indoors, it was clear: Chicagoans were ready to take on the season with sauna culture as one of their favorite winter hobbies.
This article is a reflection of the author's experience with Fire and Ice Sauna Experience at North Avenue Beach. The views expressed are subjective and may not reflect those of the entire community.
On a chilly January Saturday, I layered up in my full-length black mink coat to brave North Avenue Beach, but little did anyone know that it was just the beginning of my winter warmth quest. The icy breeze quickly gave way to an unexpected respite as I shed layers for shorts and a T-shirt, shedding my cold exterior to reveal a more relaxed, inner self.
Inside the Fire and Ice Sauna Experience, located on the lakefront, temperatures soared to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. For owner Matt Obal, this was more than just a novelty - it was a meditation technique that brought him peace. "It's like your endorphins are rushing," he explained. "You go in without a phone and focus on your breath work; it just feels good after you come out." The science behind it is simple: heat releases natural painkillers, also known as endorphins, which leave users feeling invigorated.
Obal's entrepreneurial spirit was sparked during the pandemic when customers began asking for at-home saunas. He saw an opportunity to expand his Thunder Domes business into a mobile sauna experience that catered to Chicagoans seeking a winter escape from the cold. "I couldn't think of any other winter activity besides ice skating," he said, highlighting the city's limited options.
The Fire and Ice Sauna Experience is part of a growing trend in Chicago's lakefront offering unique respite from the chill. With temperatures plummeting to 15 degrees Fahrenheit on that January afternoon, this winter wonderland proved just what was needed: a warm haven for the soul. As I stood outside, sipping hot tea under layers of fur and hat, the city skyline glistened in the distance.
While some opt for cozy indoor retreats, others find solace in nature's chill. For those willing to brave the cold, outdoor activities like ice skating or winter hiking offer a refreshing change from the ordinary routine. Fire and Ice Sauna Experience marks an exciting development in Chicago's beach scene, providing another reason to visit during the often-overlooked winter months.
The author spent 20 minutes in the sauna before taking a dip in cold water, only to find herself invigorated and refreshed - much like the endorphins that help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and provide pain relief. As I watched groups come and go, some bundled up for outdoor activities while others, like me, sought warmth indoors, it was clear: Chicagoans were ready to take on the season with sauna culture as one of their favorite winter hobbies.
This article is a reflection of the author's experience with Fire and Ice Sauna Experience at North Avenue Beach. The views expressed are subjective and may not reflect those of the entire community.
. I mean, if you wanna feel good after being cold, why bother with some fancy sauna when just going outside and feeling the wind on your face would do the trick? Plus, 150 degrees is way too hot, what's next, paying to burn yourself in a giant oven? 
! Fire and Ice Sauna Experience sounds like the ultimate winter escape for city folks who can't handle the cold 
. I mean, 150 degrees Fahrenheit in a sauna? That's just crazy-hot 
! And what's not to love about releasing endorphins while you're at it? It's like your own personal happy place 
.
. It just goes to show that even in tough times, there's always room for innovation and a little bit of fun 
.
They're like a warm hug for your soul on a freezing winter day 
️. I can see why it's become popular, especially with people looking to get out of the cold. It's amazing how something as simple as heat and steam can release those endorphins and leave you feeling invigorated 
.
. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good excuse to get out and enjoy nature's chill? It's like the city is saying, "Hey, we know it's cold outside, but trust us, this sauna thing is gonna change everything!" 
I mean, don't get me wrong, sauna culture has its benefits, but let's not forget about the real issues at hand.
. I mean, what about the long-time residents who can't even afford to enjoy this new amenity? It's like we're just papering over the cracks instead of really addressing the systemic issues.
.
I've been trying out hot tubs for stress relief, but a mobile sauna experience is next level! It's like Matt Obal's idea was like "aha!" - who wouldn't want to escape the cold and chill out with some heat? 
I'm totally loving this trend of seeking out unique winter escapes in Chicago! The idea of using heat to release endorphins sounds like a total game-changer for braving those cold January days. I mean, who needs ice skating when you can sweat it out in a sauna? 
, folks! January 2025 saw an average low temp of 14.2°F (-9.9°C) with -20°F (-28.9°C) windschfts 
. But, it looks like people are finding ways to warm up and thaw out... literally! 
. That's a 12% increase from last year! 
I feel like this article is speaking directly to my soul right now, especially after a crazy week. It's amazing how something as simple as a sauna experience can release all that endorphin magic and leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated. The fact that it's become a thing in Chicago's lakefront scene is literally the best news ever! I'm so down for trying this out on a cold winter day... sounds like just what I need to shake off the blues 
.
️ - I can already imagine her coming in from the cold, hot chocolate in hand 
. But honestly, would've loved to see more outdoor activities or even just some decent winter events in the city 
anyway, can't wait to try this out for myself! 
I'm so glad they have these saunas on the lakefront, it's like a little slice of heaven on a cold winter day 
. I've been feeling really stressed lately and this place sounds like just what I need to relax 
!