How do you relax and recharge after a long week at work? My favorite way to relax and reconnect with my body is to treat myself to a spa day and hit the sauna after days of multitasking and everyday responsibilities. One of my favorite saunas in Berlin happens to be very close to the Mindful Life Studio and Shop: The Olivin Wellness Lounge Sauna .
“Olivine,” from the Latin “oliva,” is a stone named for its bright green olive and pistachio color. The great popularity of the stone dates back to ancient Rome and Egypt as well as the Baroque period. In gemstone therapy it is used to strengthen the heart chakra. It is said to promote independence and relieve anger and guilt. It also helps to recognize mistakes, strengthens self-confidence and brings calmness. A beautiful omen for this peaceful wellness oasis! By the way: Olivine is also the stone used in the sauna heater.
Over the past few years, I've come to know this place quite well, visiting it several times a month as part of my various wellness rituals. Despite its smaller size compared to other larger saunas in Berlin, Olivin offers a genuinely relaxing experience at an affordable price of €18 for four hours. Situated on the border between Prenzlauer Berg and Mitte, near the Pfefferberg site, it is accessed through a serene backyard that provides a peaceful transition from the bustling street to the sauna’s entrance. Upon entering Olivin Sauna, you are greeted by the soothing, dim lighting that gently relaxes your eyes. The wooden walls enhance the warmth and coziness of the space. The interior design is thoughtfully planned, featuring showers, heated wooden benches, and a sauna beautifully integrated into the old stone architecture at ground level.
You are greeted by the pleasant scent of essential oils that spreads throughout all rooms. Right from the entrance, the senses of sight and smell are stimulated in a way that conveys relaxation and well-being. When you register, you can also take a look at the bar with its diverse selection of organic teas, juices and hot drinks.
After placing your belongings in the mixed cloakroom, you have the choice of either relaxing on one of the loungers in the lounge area or heading straight into the Finnish sauna, which is heated up to 90 degrees by a hot stone oven. The infusion ceremony, which lasts about 10 minutes, accommodates a maximum of 30 people and tends to be busiest during this time. As the sauna air warms up, so does your body, increasing sweat production and aiding in the release of toxins and tension. When the sauna is less crowded and there is more space available, I prefer to lie down. This helps me remain calm during the infusion and allows me to reach a fully relaxed state after initially adjusting to the high temperatures. Sauna sessions can also enhance blood circulation and alleviate muscle soreness.
Afterwards, I typically take a quick cold shower for a few seconds and then immerse myself in the icy plunge pool for a minute. During the colder winter months, I might also relax on the outdoor terrace for a few minutes after leaving the sauna. The bamboo garden at Olivin, with its stone decor, narrow water feature along the wall, and outdoor shower surrounded by tall bamboo plants, enhances the Zen-like and meditative atmosphere. Soon after, I usually feel a bit drowsy and take a short (or sometimes longer!) nap in the lounge area. Upon waking, I feel refreshed and often continue to unwind with a good book or head back into the sauna for another infusion session. Each hour, different blends of essential oils are infused in the sauna, thoughtfully crafted to enhance both physical and mental well-being. Olivin also offers the option to book partial or full massages ranging from 20 to 90 minutes, available in a separate area near the lounge. Expectant mothers can even book a prenatal massage from the fourth month of pregnancy to support their bodies and ease the sometimes challenging changes.
What I love most about Olivin is the fact that in a very simple, uncluttered yet cozy and intimate space you have the opportunity to leave the stresses of everyday life behind and refocus on your physical and mental well-being. The minimalism of the place also helps the mind relax without being stimulated by too many visual distractions. I always leave Olivin feeling fully recharged, rested and with fresh energy for the new week.
Another plus point is that there are some interesting restaurants in the Olivin area where you can have dinner after a relaxing day at the spa. A great restaurant is the Pfefferberg Market Hall , which is right next to the sauna and offers many different options, from traditional Mexican cuisine to Vietnamese delicacies to a natural wine shop and a deli open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Or if, like me, you like something a little more substantial after hours of relaxation, you can enjoy one of my favorite pizzas in Berlin at “Due Forni” across the street.
visit the Olivin Wellness Lounge Sauna all week long, from midday to midnight . If you come before 1 p.m. you even get a discounted entry to happy hour.
