I have a habit during my Chennai visits. At the end of the day I spend 15-30 minutes in the sauna. I do not always get there. However, in the last eight trips, my success rate is around 80%, four out of five nights. I started the process without thinking too much about it. The sauna is new, large, and hot. The normal setting of 70 degrees centigrade is just right for what I enjoy. When I want the temperature to rise I throw water on the walls and ceiling. The humidity increase that follows raises the intensity and introduces the fragrant smell of Scandinavian alder.
A slow realization is building about the impact the sauna is having on me from the inside out. The intensity creates a clear divide between the moment before and the present. When I enter the sauna, I would describe is as stepping away from wherever else I am. I step into something totally different. It is a demanding call to the moment at hand. I can think about the past, reflecting without a need to bring my emotions into the picture. The combination of heat, quietness, and solidarity is a space that filters everything else out.
Within minutes, the priority of whatever else is going on in my life begins to fade. I know priorities will return when I exit, so there is no need to worry about losing an edge. The invitation that embraces me is a call to rest and be in the presence. Nothing more is asked for or allowed to remain.
As I allow myself to let go, I begin to see moments of beauty and blessing in my mind. Metaphorically, I give Life permission to talk to me about what is most important. Images of those I love, an assurance that the Presence has each in Her arms, and scenes of beauty that Life has gifted me slowly come into focus. I see how God works in the way David described; “You pile blessings on him; you make him glad when you smile.” (Psalm 21.6)
