“DES MOINES | Empeiria Sauna House is bringing a new kind of weekend ritual to the city – one built on heat, cold, and connection.
WHO
Empeiria (em-pir-ee-uh), derived from the Greek word for “experience”, exists to create meaningful moments through contrast – heat and cold, solitude and community, effort and rest. Founded by two Des Moines families passionate about expanding wellness and community, Empeiria is the city’s first mobile, wood-fired sauna and cold plunge experience, designed to be equal parts restorative and social.
WHAT
Empeiria offers 60-minute contrast therapy sessions that cycle between a traditional wood-fired sauna (up to 200 degrees F), a cold plunge (as low as 40 degrees F), and intentional rest. Guests can approach the experience with a quiet, inward focus or share it with friends and others in the community, building camaraderie and resilience.
WHEN
Various Saturdays | 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Various Sundays | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
WHERE
Water Works Park – just south of the Lauridsen Amphitheater and Des Moines Biergarten.
WHY
Because wellness should feel alive and should encompass the whole person and their community.
While contrast therapy (alternating between heat and cold) has been practiced for centuries and across cultures, modern health trends and research continue to validate its impact:
– Cardiovascular health: Frequent sauna use has been associated with up to a 40% reduction in risk of cardiovascular-related mortality (University of Eastern Finland studies)
– Longevity & brain health: Regular sauna bathing is linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
– Recovery & inflammation: Cold exposure helps reduce muscle soreness and inflammation while accelerating recovery.
– Mood & resilience: Both sauna and cold exposure stimulate endorphins and norepinephrine – improving mood, focus, and stress tolerance.
– Immune support: Repeated heat and cold exposure may enhance immune system responsiveness.
Beyond the science, Empeiria is built on something simple: People need spaces to be brave together.
Whether you’re stepping into the space alone in stillness or alongside others in shared discomfort and inevitable laughter, this experience leaves you more grounded, more connected, and more alive.
HOW TO
Reservations are now available at: https://www.empeiriasauna.com/
Guests are encouraged to arrive 10 minutes early with their swimwear, towel, and sandals. On-site amenities beyond the sauna and cold plunges include changing tents, lockers, a pull cord shower, and places to reset between rounds. Hosts will be available to guide guests through the process and ensure their experience is memorable.
Empeiria is also available for private bookings, pop-ups, and community collaborations.
Follow along on Instagram @empeiria_saunahouse
With heat, cold, and a little courage,
Team Empeiria”