Aufguss rituals are more than just heat and steam: they are a full sensory experience, blending scent, sound, and movement to create a transformative journey for every guest. For Maxime Trépanier, a Ritual Artisan at Nordik Spa Village Chelsea, the journey from observer to performer has been a story of nerves, learning, and personal growth.
Inside Maxime Trépanier’s First Aufguss Performance
A First Encounter with the Ritual
Years before he ever considered leading an Aufguss, Maxime experienced the ritual as a guest. “A friend introduced me to my first Aufguss and the whole thermal cycle experience. I’ve been hooked ever since,” he recalls. That first exposure left a lasting impression, shaping his appreciation for the art of creating a complete sauna experience.
After moving back to the Gatineau area, he began looking for work in health and wellness. When he saw an opening on the Rituals team, he knew it was the perfect opportunity. “I applied immediately and here I am!” he says.
A Baptism by Fire
Maxime’s first performance took place about six months ago. The preparation had been intense, but the nerves surprisingly didn’t come from the heat or the physical challenge of performing. “I was feeling extremely stressed and anxious, not for the performance aspect but more for speaking in front of so many people,” he remembers.
During the performance, he focused on simplicity and inclusivity, ensuring every guest felt the heat and movement of air around them. “I didn’t want to miss anyone,” he says.
An Experience for the Senses
Music played a key role in his first Aufguss, with two songs from Hazlet: I’m Not Ready to Go and Doing My Best. “I still do those songs in my rituals to this day,” Maxime shares.
For essential oils, he kept it simple with yuzu, thuja, and ylang ylang. The trio was easy to remember because they're said the same in English and French, which helped with his public speaking nerves. The combination offered a fresh, grounding, and lightly floral aroma that guided his movements and complemented the sauna experience.
Reflections on the First Performance
Maxime relied on basic movements for his first Aufguss, focusing on guiding the air around the sauna. “I felt I was moving the air around very nicely. I loved it, I was proud of myself and eager to learn more!”
Since then, his style has evolved dramatically. “Sometimes it’s hard for me to acknowledge all the work and improvements I’ve made because I’m always looking for flaws and how to better myself in the present moment,” he says. He now incorporates classical techniques, refined movement, spatial awareness, and even playful tricks, making each performance a unique experience for guests.
Looking back, Maxime notes that if he were to redo that first Aufguss today, it would be very different. “I would focus more on classical techniques, better understand the movements, navigate the sauna with ease, and of course, include more tricks!”
Maxime’s journey from a first-time guest to a skilled Ritual Artisan is a reminder of the power of trying something new. Every first experience may feel intimidating, but it also brings growth, discovery, and the joy of connecting with others through ritual.
Experience the warmth for yourself. Book your visit to Nordik Spa Village Chelsea and discover the magic of an Aufguss ritual.
