Weekly Highlights: 1/13-1/19
This week, I took a deep dive into a wellness hotspot that’s been generating plenty of buzz lately: the Othership. If you’re unfamiliar, the Othership is a hybrid sauna and ice bath experience combining relaxation, community, and wellness rituals. It offers free-flow sessions and guided classes to leave you feeling rejuvenated and invigorated. Here’s my full review of the experience and some insights and recommendations for your visit.
What Is the Othership?
The Othership is more than just a sauna or an ice bath—it’s a curated wellness experience. Their free-flow sessions allow visitors to cycle through saunas and ice baths at their own pace while classes guide participants through breathwork, sound baths, and mindfulness practices. The space is sleek, modern, and designed with social media in mind. It’s becoming a go-to spot for 20-somethings and 30-somethings looking for a unique way to unwind, socialize, and focus on health.
My Experience
I visited the Othership on a Sunday afternoon around 3 p.m., and it was packed. The crowd leaned young, with an energetic “see and be seen” vibe. If you’re planning a visit, show up early. With multiple sessions happening simultaneously, the dressing rooms fill up quickly, and securing a good spot in the sauna is a competitive sport. Arriving early also gives you time to settle in and acclimate to the space.
The Sauna Sound Bath
The experience began with a sweaty sauna session featuring a sound bath. Think rain sticks, atmospheric tones, and group singing—a little kumbaya, but worth trying at least once. The heat is intense, and the group energy is palpable. Following the sound bath, participants rinse off and start the circuit.
The Circuit: Sauna, Ice Bath, Repeat
The circuit involves alternating between the sauna and various ice baths. Each plunge offers a different level of intensity: cold, colder, and coldest. The coldest option was borderline unbearable—even for me, someone accustomed to the challenges of extreme temperatures. There’s a science to the breathing techniques that supposedly make the plunges more manageable, but I admit I skimmed over that part.
From a dermatologist’s perspective, saunas and ice baths offer significant benefits. Saunas can improve circulation, support skin health, and aid in detoxification. Ice baths, or cold plunges, help reduce inflammation, speed muscle recovery, and promote overall resilience. However, they’re not for everyone, and listening to your body’s limits is always wise.
My Biggest Qualm: Hygiene
One of my primary concerns with places like the Othership is hygiene. Shared spaces like saunas and ice baths can pose a risk for conditions such as foot fungus. I was almost obsessive about washing my feet with soap whenever possible. It’s crucial to maintain proper hygiene in such environments to reduce the risk of infections. I think the Othership should consider allowing flip-flops or water shoes for those who prefer additional protection. This minor adjustment could go a long way in enhancing the overall experience.
The Vibe
Here’s where my experience gets a bit mixed. The overall atmosphere at the Othership felt youthful and slightly “fratty”—less about quiet health and more about socializing. It’s a stark contrast to my visit to the Bathhouse (which I’ve written about previously). The Bathhouse experience felt more sophisticated, emphasizing hygiene and a peaceful environment. While I’d happily return to the Bathhouse, I’m undecided about revisiting the Othership. Perhaps the more focused classes would offer a different, less chaotic experience.
Wellness Spas: The New Social Scene
The rise of wellness spas like the Othership highlights a broader cultural shift. These spaces have become trendy alternatives to traditional social hangouts. Friends meet here to connect; couples use them as unique date spots. In my opinion, it’s part of a larger movement that’s contributing to the decline in alcohol consumption—there are so many fun, health-focused ways to spend time these days that don’t involve drinking.
Although I don’t drink, I’m not anti-bar. I love exploring creative and vibey spots around the city (Bar Valentina, anyone?). But it’s a good reminder that you can have just as much fun in wellness-focused spaces, prioritizing health without sacrificing social connection.
Other Highlights of the Week
In addition to my visit to the Othership, I checked out a few new spots this week that I’d love to recommend:
The Temple Bar: This spot has an epic martini list. My friend ordered an olive oil martini, which looked fascinating. Definitely worth a visit for cocktail enthusiasts.
Common Country: A new-ish country bar that’s an absolute blast. With a DJ and a sax player, it’s a uniquely NYC take on a country vibe. This place will get packed soon, so check it out before the crowds descend.
Verlaine: I stopped by their happy hour to scope the scene for my readers. Even as a sober person, I was impressed. They offer $8 lychee martinis, and the sultry, fun vibe makes it a must-visit spot. Highly recommend!
Final Thoughts
The Othership offers an interesting, if slightly chaotic, wellness experience. While the free-flow sessions might not be everyone’s cup of tea, the concept itself is worth trying. If you’re curious, I’d recommend experimenting with a guided class for a more structured approach. And if you do decide to take the plunge (literally), be sure to show up early, brace yourself for the cold, and prioritize hygiene. Meanwhile, for those looking for other fun outings, don’t miss the spots I’ve mentioned above. Happy exploring!