Sammy Gallee 🇧🇪

Rituals of the Soul: An Interview with a Sauna Master

A journey of passion, patience, and creativity in the world of sauna ceremonies

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What brought you to the sauna for the first time?
I was a regular client who frequently visited the spa for more than 20 years. It was a natural part of my life.
Why did you decide to get involved in sauna ceremonies, and how long have you been in this profession?
It was on my bucket list to build my own sauna in the garden, and in 2017 that dream came true. A wood-fired sauna with panoramic glass and a relaxation area was the final result. When my partner joined a massage course, she met a sauna master who introduced us to Martijn Van Hoorelbeke (Aromen). That changed everything: I gained access to the best essential oils, studied under Rob Keyser, and explored EO, Hammam, smoke therapy, and more. Over time, I also created the first personalized infusion spoon, born from my passion for wood and natural materials.
“Every spoon I make begins with patience; the wood doesn't let itself be rushed. It requires attention and respect – no two spoons are ever the same.”
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Where do you currently work, and what do you enjoy most about your job?
I’ve worked my way up in various wellness centers in Belgium, but my true joy lies in creating ceremonies and unique experiences. For me, it’s about blending heat, herbs, smoke, and intention into something transformative.
Do you visit the sauna in your free time, or is it just a work-related activity now?
Since I have a sauna at home, I rarely go as a client anymore. These days, it’s mostly work-related.
What benefits does the sauna bring you? Is it just about health, or is there something more?
It’s more than health. For me, sauna is about creating deeply personal moments for each guest – through heat, scent, and music with intention. It’s a holistic experience for both body and soul.
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What are you most proud of in your career? Do you have a moment you’ll remember forever?
Winning HC Belgium in 2022 and finishing 5th at the world championships in Prague was unforgettable. But even more so, collaborating with Greet Van Bosstraeten to create Rituals of the Soul, where we blend masculine and feminine energies into unique ceremonies for small groups.
What is your favorite essential oil or fragrance combination that you like to use during ceremonies?
I work with many, but smoke rituals with birch branches and earthy scents hold a special place in my heart. They create an atmosphere that feels timeless and grounding.
Which ceremony do you enjoy performing the most, and why?
I enjoy ceremonies that combine all elements – heat, water, herbs, smoke, music, and cold. It’s the synergy that makes them powerful, not a single component.
Do you have any unforgettable or quirky memories from the sauna that you’d like to share?
Every ritual creates something unforgettable, but what touches me most are those silent moments when guests leave with glowing eyes, clearly transformed by the experience.
Future Plans: I plan to participate in HC competitions and similar events. What inspires me most is the magic that arises from simplicity. Rituals don’t have to be complicated – the real power lies in authenticity and intention.
Is there anything you’d like to say to the readers about what personally inspires you about sauna rituals?
Every ritual I create carries my soul and creativity. For me, it’s not just an act – it’s a vibrant experience that opens the heart and deepens life. That is the true inspiration I want to share.
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