As someone who deals with Graves’ Disease and hyperthyroidism, and experiencing anxiety often as an underlying symptom of these conditions, I really care about my well-being. To me, that means looking after my health in all aspects — not just physically, but also emotionally, and mentally.

When it comes to good health, a lot of people focus a lot on fitness, staying fit, and keeping in shape. But wellness should be a part of it as well. It should be holistic. 

Speaking of wellness, I am happy to explore more about it through my sauna experiences at AYO AYO Café & Sauna.

AYO AYO started out as a backpackers’ hostel. It is famously called the yellow house of the town because of its exterior, while the homey ambiance is inviting for both travelers and locals to stop by.

In February this year, AYO AYO launched its sauna, with interiors that are inspired by Japanese traditional influences, fostering an experience that tunes out the busyness of the metro. It has gender-specific lockers, a steam room, shower areas, and a cold dipping pool. 

At first, I loved using the sauna just because it felt good. I didn’t know it has so many health benefits. Among those that keep me coming back are improved sleep, detoxification (it removes toxins out of your body through sweat), relief from stress and muscle pains, calorie burn, and from my personal research, it’s also good for my condition.

According to the book Sauna Therapy for Detoxification and Healing by Dr. Lawrence Wilson, several studies have shown that regular sauna use lowers levels of cortisol, which is the body’s main stress hormone. Dr. Wilson further wrote that research has shown that sweating increases relaxation, which reduces anxiety and the feelings of frustration. Indeed, I’ve been feeling better and in a happier state since I’ve started going to the sauna more often. 

It’s more than just relaxation and enjoying its benefits. You create deeper connections with people too.

“I wanted to share my personal fondness with using the sauna because it has a lot of benefits, from health to nurturing connections,” shares founder Tomohiko Terada, better known as Tomo. “Having lived in the Philippines for about 7 years, there were many things that I have learned from the local culture. In return, I believe that making the sauna more accessible here in Cebu is one way for me to give back and bring more of the Japanese culture here.”

There’s a phrase written on the wall of AYO AYO’s sauna area, “Life is Sauna.” I’ve often wondered what the phrase meant. If we just define life, it is an aspect of existence — so they say.

The concept of a sauna is more than just its definition of “a room in which people aim to relax in dry heat.” When you go to the sauna, you breathe and connect with yourself internally as well.

The only way you can grow and connect well with people is when you are able to connect with yourself. You develop self-awareness. The sauna experience reminds you of your existence and helps you connect with yourself and the people around you. Life is existence and the sauna experience itself reminds you of existence through self-awareness. I guess that’s how I would define or understand the phrase based on my experience. 

I highly recommend experiencing the sauna in AYO AYO. They have massage services too in case you want a massage after sauna. Walk-in rates begin at Php 400.00; you can also avail of a 12-session monthly subscription for only Php 3,500.

AYO AYO Café and Sauna
44 Emilio Osmeña Street, Guadalupe, Cebu City
Operating Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
+63 998 224 0502 | info@ayoayocafe.com
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