The benefits extend far beyond a simple mood shift. Science backs Andy’ s enthusiasm: A 2018 study by the Mayo Clinic linked regular sauna use to cardiovascular improvements and a reduced risk of high blood pressure. Evidence from that same study suggests it might offer other health benefits, including alleviating joint pain, and boosting immunity.
Longtime sauna enthusiast and local resident Jeff Dufour has experienced HUHT in both private rentals and public pop-ups, and can attest to the positive effects.“ I personally find my stress levels are lowered, my sleep is improved, and my body recovers faster from my workouts,” Jeff says.“ Andy has created something exciting here, it’ s more than just a sauna, it’ s a place to reset and recharge. It’ s a ten-out-of-ten experience. My only issue is I can’ t use it daily.”
While the heat of the sauna is easy, the cold is the challenge. If the thought of full-body immersion in a tub of cold water sounds like torture, Andy wants you to know that he gets it.“ I’ ve been cold plunging at least three times a week for the better part of two years— it always sucks every single time,” laughs Andy.“ But the instant mood boost makes it worth it.”
Though the high-intensity practice is not suited for everyone, Andy is on a mission to make contrast therapy— the intentional cycling between extreme heat and cold— more accessible and less like a luxury service. For those who are cleared for the challenge, the magic lies in its simplicity.“ Sometimes you just need to sweat, plunge, and leave feeling better.”
While the winter months saw HUHT’ s mobile units parked for a residency at the Center for
HUHT Events
SAUNA VILLAGE AT BOUSQUET 10 a. m. – 5 p. m. through March 21
Contemporary Performance( PS21) in Chatham, March finds Andy wrapping up an après-style residency at the base of Bousquet Ski Mountain. Looking ahead at the warmer months, HUHT is finalizing plans for the Boston Run to Remember Half Marathon in downtown Boston( May 24) and prepping for a return to the Berkshire Yoga Festival( June 11-14).
For Andy, a self-described introvert, the biggest reward of his whirlwind journey hasn’ t been the“ biohacking”— it’ s been the Berkshire connections.“ I think there’ s this need for communal spaces where social connection is fostered. I moved up here and didn’ t really have a network. When I host these pop-ups, it fills my cup from a social connection standpoint and its been really rewarding and fun.”
In an area where long winters and unpredictable springs can feel isolating and lonely, Andy offers a mobile hearth where the community can gather, sweat, and reemerge together. n
For more information on where to find HUHT next, private rentals, custom builds, and at-home products, visit gethuht. com.
BERKSHIRE YOGA FESTIVAL Jiminy Peak June 11 – 14
MOBILE RESIDENCIES Keep an eye out for pop-ups!
Sweatiquette
To ensure everyone has the best possible experience, Andy recommends these guidelines. Respect the heat, and the heat will respect you.
• SHOWER FIRST: Clean bodies keep the benches— and everything else— fresh.
• SIT ON A TOWEL: It protects the benches and keeps things sanitary.
• RESPECT THE“ LÖYLY”: Loyly is the Finnish term for the steam that rises when water is poured over hot sauna stones. Ask the group before tossing water on the rocks.
• DRESS WITH RESPECT: Swimsuits or workout attire are standard. Perfumes, colognes, and jewelry( it heats up fast!) are not invited.
• MIND THE TECH AND THE TIME: Sauna is a phone-free zone. Listen to your body and step out if necessary.
• HYDRATE: Bring a water bottle and be sure to hydrate before and after.
TIPS
First-Time Plungers
Ready to take the plunge? Andy offers these tips for your first“ contrast” session.
Warm Start: Andy recommends starting in the sauna. Going warm to cold makes the transition easier.
Be Prepared: Pack dry clothes, flip-flops, and a couple towels.
Embrace the Suck:“ It doesn’ t get easier,” Andy warns.“ But the mood boost is worth it.”
Safety First: If you are pregnant, have heart issues, or low blood pressure, consult your doctor before trying sauna or cold plunge.
Spring 2026 BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE // 83