Recapping Sauna Camp

Our recent sauna camp was a chance to step away from the daily grind, embrace wellness, and connect with like-minded individuals in the building industry. Held at Camp Tanadoona on the shores of Lake Minnewashta in Chanhassen, MN, this experience combined sauna therapy, cold plunges, breath work, and shared meals to create a holistic approach to health and well-being.

The Sauna Camp Experience

The event kicked off with a warm welcome! Participants then engaged in a guided breathwork session led by Dr. Mel Krug. Lying down with their faces covered, attendees followed rhythmic breathing patterns that helped alter their perception of time, relax their nervous systems, and prepare for the cold plunge challenge.

From there, we made our way to the icy lake waters for an invigorating 33-degree cold plunge. Leveraging our newly acquired breathwork techniques, attendees submerged in the frozen lake water, with durations ranging from 30 seconds to an impressive seven minutes. This was followed by a visit to one of the nine-barrel private saunas, including the largest barrel sauna in the country, which accommodates up to 22 people.

For two hours, participants cycled between cold plunges and sauna sessions, growing both our physical endurance and new friendships through shared experiences. We finished up with an amazing Mediterranean meal prepared by FUMO, featuring grilled lamb, chicken, sausage, hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and warm pita bread. It was the perfect way to refuel after a taxing day. People were going back for seconds, thirds, and even fourths!

An Incredible Experience

While every aspect of Sauna Camp left a lasting impression, the shared meal at the end was a personal favorite. After pushing their limits in the cold plunge and sauna rotations, the delicious food and opportunity to connect with others was just what we needed.

The feedback from guests was overwhelmingly positive. Many were surprised by the emotional and physical impact of the breath work session, with some experiencing deep relaxation, heightened awareness, or even emotional releases. The food was another major hit. Overall, the combination of wellness, conversation, and physical challenge made for a truly unique experience that we all enjoyed!

The Importance of Sauna Camp

For me, Sauna Camp was about more than just health and wellness—it was about fostering meaningful connections. Saunas have long been a part of my personal recovery and relaxation routine for years, providing a space for physical benefits, mental clarity, and social engagement. The goal of Sauna Camp was to share this powerful experience with others, especially within the building industry, where structured wellness opportunities are often lacking. It was an opportunity to step away from the daily hustle, reset, and engage in something that nourishes both body and mind.

What’s Next? Introducing Bootcamp

For those who loved the sauna experience (or are sorry they missed out) and are looking for an even deeper experience, Bootcamp is the next step. While Sauna Camp is a short-term wellness retreat, Bootcamp is a multi-day immersive experience focused on personal growth and mental resilience. It strips away distractions—no phones, no alcohol—and introduces structured challenges, silent reflection, and meaningful conversations.

Bootcamp is designed for those who want to push their limits, reset their mindset, and connect with a supportive community. The retreat, held at Under Canvas, offers a balance of comfort and nature through a “glamping” experience. With a smaller, more intimate group of 12-20 participants, Bootcamp includes workouts, hikes, canyoning, communal meals, and guided reflection sessions. 

Want to learn more about bootcamp? Check out this blog for all the info!

Future Plans for Sauna Camp

Due to the overwhelming success of this year’s Sauna Camp, plans are in motion to expand the event to a two-day experience next year. This would allow for additional activities, such as a morning walk or run on the ice, followed by another sauna session and meal. The goal is to offer attendees more flexibility and create an even more well-rounded wellness retreat.

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors

A huge shoutout to Donkey Label, a Minnesota-based bike racing apparel company. Founder Paul Crumrich, who also owns Greenway Solar, played a key role in supporting Sauna Camp. Thanks to his generosity, attendees received high-quality tech shirts, shorts, and socks!

Stay tuned for details on next year’s Sauna Camp and upcoming Bootcamp opportunities. If you're looking for a way to reset, recharge, and challenge yourself in a supportive environment, this is an experience you won’t want to miss!