Our story and Mission

Before this, life felt busy, rushed, and not as fulfilling as I wanted it to be. I knew I wanted to make some changes, live a healthier lifestyle, and build something that felt more meaningful. I also wanted a life that gave me a bit more freedom — and, if I’m honest, a job where I could have a dog by my side.

 

The idea for BePresent first came after a winter beach sauna with a good friend. It was cold, the sea was rough, and after the heat of the sauna, the plan was to jump into the water. I remember feeling hesitant before going in, but afterwards, I felt incredible.

 

Calm. Clear. Proud. Properly alive.

 

Part of what made it special was the experience itself, and part of it was sharing it with good company. It was something different, something exciting, and something that pulled me completely into the moment.

 

Afterwards, we went for food, and on the drive home I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I remember thinking, this would be such a fun business idea. But more than that, I wished there was somewhere local where I could do it regularly — somewhere that made sauna and cold water therapy feel less like an occasional treat and more like part of everyday life.

 

That thought stayed with me.

 

The name BePresent came later, during a walk around Shearwater Woods. I had my phone on aeroplane mode, no distractions, just walking and taking everything in. It was one of those simple moments when  you realise how good it feels to properly switch off and just be where you are.

 

To me, being present means being in the moment and actually enjoying the moment. Not rushing ahead. Not thinking about everything else you need to do. Just taking a breath and being there.

 

That feeling has became the heart of BePresent.

 

I wanted to create a space where people could slow down, switch off, and invest in themselves. A place where you could challenge yourself, relax, recover, and leave feeling better than when you arrived.

 

Saunas and ice baths have personally helped me feel calm and relaxed, but they also push me out of my comfort zone. The cold is a struggle. The heat can be a challenge too. But that’s part of what makes the experience so rewarding. You step into something uncomfortable, breathe through it, and come out the other side feeling stronger, clearer, and more present.

 

BePresent is designed for everyone. You don’t need to be an athlete. You don’t need to be experienced. You don’t need to know exactly what you’re doing. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a regular sauna user, someone focused on recovery, or simply someone who wants a quiet hour to reset, you’re welcome here.

 

We chose Marsh Farm because it felt like the perfect place for a small wellness retreat. It’s local, peaceful, and already has so much going on. There’s plenty of easy free parking, which was really important to me, as parking has been an issue at some of the sauna places I’ve visited before. There’s also a PT studio and yoga next door, a coffee shop that roasts its own coffee on site, and the canal nearby for lovely walks before or after your session. It gives people the chance to make more of their visit — not just to come in and out, but to enjoy the whole experience.

 

From the beginning, I wanted BePresent to feel like a micro retreat.

 

Some sauna places are very rustic, and I do love that style, but I also know it’s not for everyone. I wanted to create something that still feels natural and calming, but with a bit more comfort. That’s why BePresent has private indoor changing facilities, hot showers, underfloor heating throughout, and outdoor ice baths to keep that fresh, open-air feeling.

 

I also wanted to keep it small. BePresent isn’t about big crowds or rushing people through. It’s designed for smaller, calmer groups, so the experience feels more personal, relaxed, and welcoming.

 

When people arrive, I want them to feel welcome, excited, and present.

 

When they leave, I want them to feel content, calm, and proud that they took time for themselves.

 

And, of course, no BePresent story would be complete without Lucy — my puppy, CEO, founder, and head of security. She’s very much part of the team, even if her main responsibilities currently include greeting people, inspecting the space, and keeping morale high.

 

BePresent is my idea of the perfect micro retreat. I’ve built something that I genuinely love, and now the hope is that other people love it too.

 

A place to slow down.
A place to switch off.
A place to challenge yourself, reconnect, and enjoy a moment of calm.

 

Take a breath.
Slow down.
BePresent.