Wellness Royal · Magazine

Creating a private wellness oasis with small tricks

Whoever wants to turn their home into a private spa world has many possibilities today. A sauna in the house or in the garden, a whirlpool for relaxed hours, a sun deck with a garden lounger for the warm rays of the summer sun — much of this can be realised privately with a little manual skill. What matters in planning, location and care we summarise here.

A private wellness oasis
A private wellness oasis provides relaxation at home. Image: Shakespeare [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Bringing the dream of wellness into your own four walls

In times that are often far too hectic it is important to be able to switch off and let the soul dangle — and you do not necessarily have to travel to a spa hotel for that. Whoever has a generous bathroom can plan a whirlpool and a small sauna there. Fragrance oils provide the right atmosphere and help you leave everyday stress behind.

If the bathroom lacks space you can move to other rooms. All that matters is that the feel-good oasis is easy to reach — ideally near the bedroom. That way you can slip straight into bed after the warm water or the sauna round. Balconies and terraces too can be turned into small wellness temples given enough space, with a view of the starry sky above the gently bubbling whirlpool. Such tubs should be well insulated, though, so that the pleasure is not cut short in winter.

From the garden to a feel-good oasis

Garden owners have the lovely possibility of laying out a wellness oasis in the green. Surrounded by fragrant plants, flowering beds and a comfortable lounger, a place arises where you can find undisturbed recreation. When planning a garden whirlpool, however, there is a good deal to consider: first of all a suitable location is needed to which water and power lines can be laid — and which at the same time lies protected from wind and curious glances.

Short distances to the house are valuable in winter in particular, so that the pleasure does not cool off. Ideal is a spot near the terrace with a good view over the garden — that way you grant the eye some recreation too. Unlike a folding lounger, a garden whirlpool is permanently exposed to wind and weather; temperature swings and heavy rainfall in spring and autumn narrow the choice of materials.

Hygiene: the often overlooked point

One aspect that likes to get lost amid all the anticipation: water hygiene. If the water in a private whirlpool stands for longer and is not consistently treated and disinfected, germs such as legionella can multiply. When the finest water droplets (aerosols) are inhaled they are a health risk to be taken seriously — in warm, poorly maintained bubble tubs in particular. Regular water changes, thorough filter cleaning and correct disinfection are therefore a firm part of the private wellness oasis.

Good planning for lasting wellness pleasure

So that you can benefit from your oasis long and comfortably, careful planning beforehand pays off — from the necessary pipework via the location to its care. Which materials and prefabricated components come into question in the end depends on the budget too; pay attention here to quality and generous warranty periods. And if your own oasis should ever seem too small, the next spa day in a spa hotel is only a booking away.

Sources & further reading

By the Wellness Royal editorial team

Published on March 21, 2013 · Updated on September 24, 2022

Frequently asked questions

Which wellness elements can you set up at home?

Depending on space: a small sauna or infrared cabin, a whirlpool, a steam shower, a rest and reading corner — or outdoors a garden or balcony oasis. In the bathroom, in a side room, in the garden or on the terrace a retreat can be created almost anywhere.

What should I bear in mind about the location?

Short distances (in winter especially), a spot sheltered from wind and glances, and proximity to the bedroom or terrace. Whirlpool and sauna need water and power lines within reach, and outdoors good insulation and weatherproof materials are a must.

How important is hygiene in a private whirlpool?

Very important. In standing, poorly maintained water legionella can multiply and infect the airways when fine aerosols are inhaled. Regular water changes, filter cleaning and correct disinfection are therefore no accessory but a precondition for carefree enjoyment.

Is a home sauna worthwhile for your health?

Regular sauna use is associated in long-term Finnish studies with positive effects on the heart and circulation. At home it is particularly comfortable — what remains important is calm, drinking enough and the right sequence of heating, cooling and resting. Our [sauna world](/themen/sauna-welt/) gives an overview of the sauna types.