Below is a story and some musings. Thought I would share.

I have been thinking about going to one for a while. Have had either real or made up excuses as reasons not to. I finally took the plunge. I only made the decision as I was entering the subway station. Very last minute. I was not worried about being naked. More about committing to going to a new place alone and due to the distance (about 90 minutes from home using subway and bus).

I went to the New York Spa and Sauna in queens. And I’m really glad I did. It was definitely out of my comfort zone. No, it’s not luxurious but it is a real place that the Korean community goes to and that’s good enough for me. Also the price was less than others. I quickly stripped at my locker and showered. There were a few other guys there. Some older Koreans. Some younger. Some white. There was even a father and his son who must have been around 9 or 10.

I loved being naked and having that community feeling. It felt so natural (because it is). I then went into the hot tub and got acclimated. I tried out the dry sauna and then the steam room, then back to the showers and then another dip in the hot tub. Guys filtered in and out. I was surprised that it wasn’t busier.

I will admit that I did wish I was there with someone. I found myself just sitting looking around and, yes I admit, I did peek a bit at what others are packing. I always find it fascinating. I do try to do this respectfully and not creepily. But as my eyes would wander because I had no one to talk to, it probably looked like I was checking people out more than I was. Or making awkward eye contact.

I figured it was time to get something to eat. I showered, put on the supplied uniform, and headed up to the coed lounge area and ordered some Korean food. While eating I thought about how happy I was that I had this little adventure. I also pontificated about how sad it is that this isn’t also a part of American culture. Being forced to shed your clothes and your electronics and just sit with yourself and be. It’s probably so healthy.

I asked a friend (who’s more like a brother to me) if he would go with me and he loved the idea. I mentioned it to another friend and he said maybe. I know that the nudity hurdle is really tough for a lot of guys. Especially going with a friend. This is much more than face-forward locker room changing. I hope I can convince a few people to make the trek with me next time.

Sorry for the rambling. Happy to answer any questions in the comments or in DMs.