First Visit to Wellness & Recovery Haus: A Complete Guide

Walking into a studio with this many modalities for the first time can feel like more of a decision than it needs to be. This is a practical guide to a first visit, what to expect, how to prepare, and how to choose a starting point without overthinking it.

Deciding Where to Start

There is no wrong first booking, but some modalities are gentler entry points than others. Magnesium Float Therapy and Clearlight® Infrared Sauna are the two most common first bookings, both passive, both private, neither requiring anything of you beyond showing up. Massage is a familiar starting point for anyone who has had a treatment like it before. Cold Plunge and Contrast Therapy ask a little more of a first-timer, since the cold shock response takes some getting used to, so they tend to suit guests who already know they enjoy a challenge, or who want to be walked through it by the team rather than trying it alone.

If none of that narrows it down, ring the studio on 0466 054 696 or mention what you are hoping to get out of the visit, tired legs, poor sleep, general stress, when booking online, and the team can point you toward the right starting modality.

What Happens When You Arrive

The studio is built around private suites, not shared or communal spaces. There are no televisions, no waiting room energy, and no need to explain to anyone why you are there. On arrival, phones go on silent and the pace of the space itself does the rest of the work, guests are encouraged to arrive as they are, without needing to prepare a version of themselves for it. A staff member will walk you through your booked modality before the session starts, so there is no guesswork once you are in the suite.

How to Prepare, by Modality

Preparation is minimal across the board, but a few things make a first session smoother.

For a float, avoid caffeine for a few hours beforehand if you can, eat a light meal an hour or two before rather than right before, and avoid shaving or waxing within 24 hours, since Epsom salt can sting broken or freshly exposed skin. Showers are available before and after, and ear plugs are provided.

For infrared sauna, arrive hydrated and bring water in with you if you would like. There is no other preparation required.

For cold plunge, the main preparation is mental rather than physical. The cold shock response, that sharp intake of breath and urge to get out, typically passes within the first 30 to 60 seconds. Breathing steadily through that window is the actual skill, and the team will talk you through pacing before you get in.

For massage, arrive a few minutes early to settle in, and mention any areas of focus or discomfort when you book or on arrival.

After Your Session

Every visit ends in the studio's dedicated refresh space rather than sending you straight back out the door. Hair dryers, Australian-made skincare products, complimentary hot tea, and grooming supplies are all available to help you transition back into your day at your own pace, rather than leaving still half in session mode.

Trying More Than One Thing at Once

For a first visit that wants to sample more than a single modality, the studio's Signature Wellness Protocols combine two or three treatments into one guided booking. Reset & Revitalise pairs Infrared Sauna with LED Light Therapy for a shorter, lower-commitment combination. Detox & Destress pairs Infrared Sauna with Float Therapy, and is available booked for one or for two if you would rather bring someone along. Contrast Therapy, Infrared Sauna followed by Cold Plunge, is available as its own protocol booking as well as a standalone modality. Current inclusions and pricing for each protocol are listed on the pricelist, since these are reviewed and can change.

Making It a Habit After Your First Visit

If a first session lands well, the studio offers ongoing options for most modalities rather than requiring a single-visit or nothing approach. Regular sessions are available on a weekly or monthly basis depending on the modality, float, sauna, cold plunge, oxygen and hydrogen therapy, and compression therapy each have their own ongoing pricing listed on the pricelist. Gift cards are also available for anyone who wants to give a first visit to somebody else rather than book one for themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance, or can I walk in?

Booking online in advance is recommended to guarantee a suite and time slot. Speak with the team about current walk-in availability.

What should I wear?

Comfortable, easy to change out of clothing works for most modalities. Swimwear is required for float therapy and cold plunge.

Is there anything I shouldn't do before my first visit?

For a float specifically, avoid caffeine and a heavy meal close to your session, and avoid shaving or waxing within 24 hours. Otherwise, no significant preparation is required across the studio's modalities.

What are the studio's hours?

Monday and Friday 8:30am to 8pm, Tuesday and Thursday 8:30am to 4pm, Saturday 8:30am to 6pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm, closed Wednesdays. Confirm current hours before visiting, as these can change.

Can I bring a friend?

Some Signature Wellness Protocols, including Detox & Destress, are available for two. Speak with the team about pairing bookings for other modalities.

Is Wellness & Recovery Haus suitable if I've never tried any recovery or wellness modality before?

Yes. Most first-time guests start with a float or infrared sauna, both gentle, low-effort entry points, and the team is happy to talk through options for a first visit at any time.

Book your first visit at Wellness & Recovery Haus, Shop 8/65 Manning St, Kiama NSW 2533, at wellnessrecoveryhaus.floathelm.com/booking, or call 0466 054 696.