Banya Evening Experience – 18 February 7–10pm
Join us for a relaxed and immersive evening celebrating traditional and modern bathhouse culture.
Set in the authentic surroundings of Banya No.1 – Chiswick, the night brings together communal ritual, guided sauna practices, live music, and East European food.
Led by Toby Mott, Kseniya Bobkova, and experienced bathhouse practitioners and sauna masters, the evening features an open-format programme including Schmeissing, Parenie, Pirtis, Aufguss, and breathwork with cold plunge.
Live music will accompany the evening, including performances by Rachel D’Arcy, with operatic vocals woven into the atmosphere.
Traditional East European snacks and herbal tea (Banya No.1 – Chiswick blend) will be served.
Suitable for both newcomers and experienced bathers.
Limited spaces.
£85 / 1 person
Schmeissing
Rooted in Jewish and Eastern European bathhouse traditions, Schmeissing is an invigorating exfoliation ritual performed in steam using soap, a raffia brush, and heat, followed by a cold rinse or plunge. A cornerstone of London bathhouse culture since the early 20th century, it builds camaraderie, endurance, and mutual respect.
Parenie
A traditional Russian banya practice where the body is gently worked with heated birch or oak veniks. Using steam, rhythm, and scent, parenie warms the body deeply, stimulates circulation, and promotes relaxation and renewal.
Pirtis
A Lithuanian sauna tradition combining hot steam with wellness rituals and leaf whisking to enhance circulation. Deeply purifying and meditative, Pirtis is rooted in ancient Baltic practices.
Aufguss
A modern sauna ritual where water or ice infused with essential oils is poured over hot stones. The sauna master circulates heat and fragrance using rhythmic towel movements, often accompanied by music or guided breathing for a powerful multisensory experience.
Breathwork & Cold Plunge
Guided breathing helps calm the body and mind while entering the cold plunge, turning cold exposure into a grounding and restorative experience.
Food & Drink
A selection of traditional East European snacks will be served, including:
• Rye bread and herring
• Salmon and crackers
• Olivier tartlettes
• Pickled vegetables
• Ossetian pies
• Bliny (pancakes) with cheese and salmon
• Herbal tea
