How to setup a steam session
Simple set-up minimal equipment is needed, and will give you a 10 minute steam session. This is an option everyone can use and benefit from.
Heater set-up for a 30min session, involves a stool and heating element. This is not suited for some constitutions, such as those with heat sensitivities or those with bleeding sensitivities and it is recommended having a consult to determine if this is a beneficial set-up for your womb. Benefits will always come from the simple set-up.
Simple steam set-up
0ne- Fire
Boil 1.5l of filtered water, covered, on a heat element.
*filtered water, so that the steam is not releasing heavy metals, impurities and chlorine whilst your steam
*heat element, this helps to maintain the heat for a simple set-up
Two- Water
Turn off heat element once water has come to the boil. Place recommended amount of herbs in the pot, return lid and let them steep for 5-10mins.
If you desire to use another pot for the steam, such as a lidded crockpot warm this up with hot water while the herbs are steeping, this ensures heat is maintained during your vaginal steam.
Three- Metal
Set the space and intention. Find a space where you won’t be disturbed. Do you have a steam stool, or going to use a diy home seats or kneel? Read this blog to get some at home free diy steam setups. Other supplies needed are a blanket for cloaking, cushions if you are kneeling, portable hotplate which is optional if you’re using a stool, and music or candles. This is a self care practice, set the space to reflect the time you want. Is it a time to heal, a time to be present with yourself, reflect on what phase of your cycle you’re in and are you using your energy accordingly? Read below for more.
Four- Earth
The Earth provides and creates a safe container.
Transfer herbs to the desired vessel, cover with a lid and wrap with towel. Transfer to location safely. If you are using the pot that you used on the hotplate make sure you have an old towel or mat to sit under it, to avoid damage.
*Only use stainless steel, glass, or clay/earthenware. NEVER use a plastic vessel when steaming
Five- Wind
Wind harmonises and brings clarity and balance to what has been chaotic.
Once set up remove the lid and test the heat. Rule of thumb, if its too warm for your hand its too warm for your pelvic region. Wait till temperature is appropriate and get comfortable over the steam by wrapping a blanket around you to insulate the heat (otherwise the steam will dissipate rapidly).
Set yourself up to get the most of your steam
In traditional Chinese Medicine, the element of metal embodies clarity, boundaries, and intentions.
While it's possible to enjoy a vaginal steam session with your phone in hand, embracing the moment fully can amplify the benefits. Take a moment to breathe in the aromas of the herbs. Do you find the scent pleasing? Does it conjure any memories? Notice how the steam feels against your skin—relaxing, soothing, comforting. Allow yourself the time to settle in. Do you feel calm quickly, or does it take a while for you to unwind?
Setting a clear intention for your session is transformative and can enhance the physical benefits of pelvic steaming. Women seek steaming for various reasons—are you connecting with your feminine creative energy through a yoni steam, or are you looking to alleviate monthly cramping? Understand and clarify your purpose for steaming.
Finally, become conscious of where you are in your cycle. Are you in the follicular phase, building up energy; experiencing the creative release of ovulation; or are you in the luteal phase, preparing for consolidation? Recognising your cycle stage can deepen your practice and connection during your steaming session.
Steam Supplies
Steam Herbs
You can steam with 1tsp of salt or 2tbl of acv or Herbs blends can be purchased. Find out here which herb blend is likely to suit you.
Steam stool
A stool or steam sauna is required for the heater set-up. We have a vaginal steam sauna that can be packed away for ease.
For the simple set-ups that you may find around your home check out this post.
Steam pot
Your local second hand store should have a variety of casserole pots with a lid that hold 1.5L approx. Avoid non-stick and aluminium pots. Alternatively here is a Corningware dish that will work beautifully.
Heat element
For the heater set-up a 1000w heat element is needed to supply heat during your steam. Regular single hot plates are 1500w and usually don’t go low enough to supply steam only.
Blanket
A blanket for insulation made with natural fibres to increase insulation. Bhumi have beautiful organic cotton blankets or you can often collect one second hand at the thrift shop
