I’m Malcolm, and I’ve been coming to Neighbourhood Sauna for the past couple of months as part of my journey into mindfulness and meditation It’s quickly become a key part of my routine and the best way to start my day. The space, the people, and the overall vibe make it easy to keep showing up. I’ve met some great people along the way; the morning chats are always positive and supportive, and the staff have been amazing from day one. It’s more than just a sauna for me now, it’s part of staying grounded and looking after myself.

As the world races towards a technological reality, we are losing connectivity with the people around us. We are losing our connection with nature and ourselves, feeling increasingly isolated; we try to connect via texts and less & less in person. The idea of a village life where everyone knew and supported each other is a thing of the past. We are a family of community focused people committed in creating a connected, intentional community. We are all colours of the rainbow and our desires are: 1. To have a sense of community, companionship and the opportunity for our children to learn from a greater range of people. 2. To live in better connection with nature. 3. To become more self-sufficient and work towards food independence. 4. To engage with and be a part of the greater community, by hosting workshops and activities – there will be a common facility to host such activities. 5. Shared activities within the community such as growing food, rejuvenating the land and shared meals. We are aspiring for more- we believe there is a better way to live then we are living now. And collectively, through our combined experiences with communities and community living, and in support of each other, we are working towards creating our own reality. If this resonates with you, please reach out to Yong on 0400 049 810 – we are looking for more friends to join with us.

I work as a lawyer. I have found the beach sauna to be a wonderful release at the end of a long day sitting in front of the computer screen. It's a great way to let go of accumulated stress and tension and just reset. I have particularly enjoyed the community aspect of the beach sauna and have often found it a great place to catch up with friends and enjoy a chat. My partner Tomoko and I have also enjoyed trying out saunas whilst travelling overseas. The photo below is the two of us at a traditional sauna at Lake Hāwea in Wanaka, New Zealand. The sauna was very hot and the Lake was extremely cold! The other photo is of me at Minoo Waterfall near Osaka in Japan. Tomoko and I have particularly loved going to some of the beautiful onsen (hot spring baths) in Japan, which are quite a way of life for the Japanese.

Hello, I’m a creative drawn to honest, human stories about identity, culture, and belonging. My work is simple and observational, shaped by my love for photography and visuals, with a focus on capturing real moments and emotions. Bayto is a personal documentary I’ve just finished, set in Mesopotamia. Through everyday life and conversations, it explores the Aramean language, traditions, and what home and happiness really mean.

Hi, I’m Lisa A married, ocean loving local, with two teenage daughters. Earlier this year I turned 50, resigned from my role, and took a leap to reconnect with myself. Not long after, I bumped into the sauna community at Hillarys and it’s been a game changer. I’ve been going several times a week, feeling better than ever, and have loved connecting to all the incredibly talented people involved. The conversations have been as healing as the sweating! I’m a communications and engagement specialist with 25+ years’ experience in the not-for-profit and human services sector, supporting people, families and organisations in aged care, disability and mental health. Right now, I’m exploring new opportunities. I recently helped run a respite retreat for NDIS participants in Margaret River, and I’m about to start delivering strengths-based, wellbeing workshops in the corporate world. I am passionate about people and their potential, and have been thinking about a version of Jason's ‘Friends who Create', offering mentorship to people living with disability and/or mental ill health to create micro-business opportunities, helping turn their passions into income and independence. Here’s me leaping off to see where else the wind blows 😍