It's a Way of Life, Episode 12: Let Off Some Steam

Meet Maggie Guneyogullari, the heart and soul behind Steam & Salt – a beachside sauna tent that’s as much about community as it is about cold water. Based in Tynemouth’s King Edwards Bay, Maggie’s story is one of healing, resilience, and a touch of North Sea madness. When lockdown hit, Maggie found solace in the icy embrace of the waves just ten minutes from her doorstep. What started as personal therapy quickly evolved into something bigger—a thriving hub for seasoned sea dippers and nervous first-timers alike. Now, Maggie’s sauna sessions are as sought-after as the sunrise views from the bay. In this episode, we join Maggie from the crack of dawn (yes, 4 am!) as she and her team set up the sauna tents, heat the stones, and sneak in a pre-work dip before welcoming guests at 7 am. Whether you’re a cautious toe-dipper or a cannonball enthusiast, Maggie’s mix of sauna steam, cold water, and warm hospitality is an experience that sticks with you—like sea salt on your skin. The episode captures the joy, invigoration, and occasional shivers of Tynemouth’s cold-water community. From laughter shared in the sauna to the bravery of diving headfirst into the North Sea, it’s a celebration of nature’s power to heal and connect. Book a session with Maggie here: https://steamandsalt.co.uk/ #BarbourWayOfLife