Your First Visit to BEEM Light Sauna on Chattanooga’s Northshore: What to Expect and Why It’s Worth It
If you’ve been curious about all the buzz around light therapy and saunas—or you’re just looking for a new way to unwind and refresh in Chattanooga—BEEM Light Sauna on the Northshore might be exactly what you need. I recently dropped in for my very first session and walked away genuinely impressed, feeling lighter (mentally and physically), and surprisingly energized. Whether you're in it for the wellness benefits or just want to experience something new and social, BEEM offers a unique atmosphere that makes it easy to show up for yourself and your health.
Here’s what you can expect if you're thinking about booking your first session.
The Experience
From the moment you walk in, BEEM sets a calming, welcoming tone. The space feels clean and modern but retains a cozy vibe thanks to warm lighting and gentle background music. The layout is intentionally simple—this isn’t a place you’ll get lost in—but it’s thoughtfully designed to help you relax from the second you arrive.
BEEM offers two main services: their group infrared “Social Sauna” and individual Red Light Therapy beds. I started with the Social Sauna—a 45-minute guided sweat session. Note: “social” doesn’t mean chat the whole time (though friendly conversation is welcome)—it means you’ll share a cabin with up to six others, which makes it feel more like a mini wellness class than a private retreat.
Each session includes curated music and gentle encouragement from a BEEM guide, who reminds you to hydrate (they provide towels and water if you forget), breathe deeply, and stay tuned into how your body feels. The heat builds slowly—I began to sweat around the 15-minute mark—and by the end, I felt like I had just walked out of a gentle hot yoga class. Calm, clear-headed, and grounded.
After a quick rinse at the in-house shower stations, you can opt to follow up with a Red Light Therapy bed, which involves lying under red and near-infrared LED lights for about 15 minutes. No heat, no sweat—just a gentle, warm light designed to support skin and cellular health, mood, and recovery.
What to Know Before You Go
Location: BEEM is located in Northshore Chattanooga at 512 Tremont St, just a couple blocks off Frazier Avenue and minutes from Coolidge Park.
Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday–Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
(Check their website for any holiday hours or schedule changes.)
Pricing:
- Intro Offer: First-timers can try a 45-minute social sauna session for $25.
- Unlimited Monthly Membership: Normally $149/month, but July 2024 features a special $100 offer for new members if you sign up by the end of the month.
- Single sessions, packs, and class bookings are also available online.
Booking: All sessions must be scheduled in advance on their website (beemsauna.com) or through the BEEM mobile app.
Parking: Free onsite parking is available in the lot out front. Street parking is another easy option if it’s busy.
What to Bring: Comfy clothes you can sweat in (sports bra, shorts, etc.), water bottle, and optional toiletries for freshening up afterward. Towels are provided. Showers and mirrors are available onsite.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Best Time to Go: Morning sessions are a great way to start your day clear-headed and focused. Evenings are more relaxing if you’re winding down.
- Pair It With: Grab a smoothie next door at Southern Squeeze if you're on a wellness kick, or walk over to Mean Mug for a more indulgent post-sauna coffee and breakfast.
- Be Social: Don’t be surprised if you end up chatting with someone new in your session—it’s a naturally friendly atmosphere, especially for locals looking to meet like-minded people.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been feeling stressed, sluggish, or just in need of a mind-body reset, BEEM Light Sauna offers a low-pressure, accessible way to do something good for yourself. It’s easy to try, surprisingly affordable if you commit to a membership, and actually quite fun—especially if you go with a friend or strike up a convo while you sweat.
Whether you're a fitness regular, a wellness newbie, or just someone looking to feel a little better, a session at BEEM is definitely worth checking out.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Light Sauna at Beem Northshore: Finding a New Favorite Way to Recharge in Chattanooga


Suggested Blogs

Zaya Steakhouse: Chattanooga’s Ultimate Fine Dining Experience
A Feast for the Senses
The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a towering two-story dry-aged meat locker, a full bar, modern décor, and even a live plant wall. It’s an impressive setting that sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. Upstairs, there’s a private event space that’s ideal for celebrations like birthdays, engagement parties, or Friendsgiving gatherings.
Zaya is open for both lunch and dinner on weekends and dinner during the week, making it a versatile option whether you’re planning a fancy date night or a group celebration. They’re even open on Thanksgiving, offering a special feast that’s perfect for the holiday season.
The Steak That Melts in Your Mouth
Zaya specializes in premium Korean steakhouse-style dining, and their attention to detail is second to none. Their Butcher’s Feast is a must-try, featuring a variety of hand-selected meats cooked tableside by expert servers. Every bite of steak is so tender you won’t even need a knife.
Standout dishes include:
- The Zaya Steak: Bursting with flavor.
- Dry-Aged Tomahawk Steak: Exceptionally rich and tender.
- Delmonico Steak: A fan-favorite that’s absolutely mind-blowing.
- A5 Japanese Miyazaki Wagyu: The star of the show. This world-class Wagyu literally melts in your mouth and is a must-try for any steak lover. (It is expensive…but WORTH IT atleast once in your life!)
More Than Just Steak
The meal is served family-style, creating a fun and communal dining experience. In addition to their premium steaks, Zaya offers a wide selection of appetizers and sides that pair perfectly with the main dishes. (The glazed sweet potatoes are SOOO GOOOD!)
Plan Your Visit
- Location: 300 Cherokee Blvd, Unit 125, Chattanooga, TN 37405
- Hours:
- Tuesday–Thursday: 5 PM–10 PM
- Friday–Sunday: Lunch (11:30 AM–2:30 PM), Dinner (5 PM–10 PM)
- Closed Mondays.
- Special Events: Zaya is open on Thanksgiving with an exclusive feast menu, perfect for celebrating the holiday in style.
Zaya Korean Steakhouse delivers on every level. With an award-winning reputation and unforgettable flavors, this is the place to impress anyone.
For more Chattanooga dining recommendations, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Plant Bar: speciality coffee, tea, zero-proof cocktails, & more in Asheville & Chattanooga
Plantbar: A TASTE-Test Review!
Nestled inside Asheville Dispensary, just a quick hop from downtown, Plantbar isn’t your typical coffee or juice shop—it’s a calm, plant-filled space that also offers specialty, zero-proof cocktails, good hangs, and a great spot to WFH from! They have bagels, live music, and all different types of coffee and tea, including boba- and you can request an add in- though i got my drinks without so I can’t speak to the nano cannibis infusion, however I know the staff is very knowledgeable about it all!
Whether you're seeking a specialty coffee, a zero-proof cocktail, or a matcha latte with adaptogens, this spot brings intention and creativity to every cup. And with a 4.9-star average on Google, it’s clear Plantbar has already earned a loyal following.
The Experience
Think light-filled interiors, houseplants as décor, and a relaxed energy that makes it easy to post up with your laptop or catch up with a friend. The bar is located inside AVL Dispensary—an Asheville-originated wellness shop that offers CBD, herbal blends, and holistic products—so you’re surrounded by a vibe that’s very much focused on slowing down and taking care of yourself.
The drink menu is where things get really interesting. You’ll find everything from espresso classics to creatively named zero-proof cocktails made with non-alcoholic spirits. There are teas, herbal infusions, and seasonal specials that rotate throughout the year. Each drink is crafted with high-quality ingredients, and many come with optional add-ons like CBD, functional mushrooms, or adaptogenic herbs.
It’s the kind of place where you can get your daily matcha, experiment with a house-made botanical soda, or try something new—like their non-alcoholic take on an espresso martini
What to Know Before You Go
Location:
Plantbar is located inside AVL Dispensary at 202 Manufacturers Rd Suite B, Chattanooga
Parking:
There’s a paid lot right next to the building, or you can usually find free parking across the street in the shared lot.
Price Range:
Drinks are reasonably priced for quality ingredients—expect coffeehouse-style pricing, with wellness upgrades costing a little extra.
Atmosphere:
Quiet, serene, great for solo visits, casual dates, or low-key meetings. It’s not a grab-and-go spot; it’s one you’ll want to linger in for a bit.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- The minimalist design and leafy greenery make it a great place for photos, especially if you’re into aesthetically pleasing latte shots.
-The green drink i’m drinking in the video is a MERTAIL! aka a mocktail but a little different. it’s like a healthier electrolyte drink - imitating the complexity and presentation of craft cocktails but with hydrating ingredients.
- This is not the best place for someone sensitive to the smells of a dispensary. The 2 are combined in one space!
Final Thoughts
Plantbar is one of those special places that feels a little tucked away, but once you find it, you’ll want to keep coming back. It’s perfect for locals looking for an inspiring new hangout or for visitors wanting a calm break in their itinerary. Whether you're deep into the wellness journey or just curious about a zero-proof take on your favorite drink, it's definitely a spot worth discovering.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Vetopia Animal Health Opens in Chattanooga: A Family-Owned Veterinary “Utopia” for Pets and Their People
Chattanooga has a brand new kind of veterinary clinic, and it’s one that’s rethinking the entire experience for both pets and their parents. Vetopia Animal Health, located in Hixson, was designed with a clear vision: to create a true “utopia” for animals, owners, and the veterinary staff who care for them.
“Vetopia is this idea of a utopia for pets, people, and the people that work in the veterinary industry,” explains Dr. Bello, who co-founded the clinic with her husband Jerren.

From the beginning, the goal wasn’t just to build another vet office.
“It was always my dream to have a place where people could bring their pets and we could give them the care they deserve," said Bello. And what better city than Chattanooga to do it?”
A New Approach to Veterinary Care
One of the biggest ways Vetopia sets itself apart is by focusing on collaboration and transparency.
“Our biggest differentiator is we try to involve the pet owner as much as possible,” says Dr. Bello. “I talk them through what I’m seeing step by step, so they’re a part of it.”
This approach extends beyond the exam table.
“We wanted to create a space where it was calming. Animals felt secure. People felt like they had the space to feel whatever emotions they wanted to feel.”
Better Pet Care Through Better People Care

The clinic’s motto, “better pet care through better people care,” speaks to the heart of its mission.
“Better pet care through better people care means we can’t forget pets come with people- and if we don’t care for those people, we’re not doing them a service.”
That focus on people extends to Vetopia’s staff as well.
“I really wanted to create a place where people came to work and they absolutely loved what they did and they left feeling like they accomplished something great every day.”
When I visited the vet for the first time with Mailbox (my dog), I truly saw this mission played out. The employees love their job, I as a pet parent felt very cared for, and Mailbox honestly loves his visits to the vet!
The Experience for Pet Parents
From the moment Mailbox and I walked through Vetopia’s doors, I could tell this wasn’t going to feel like a typical vet visit (and I've been to many vets in Chattanooga!) I was greeted, offered complimentary coffee (and it was actually FIRE coffee- I really liked it as someone who's not in to a lot of coffee!), and was taken back to a themed waiting room.
Each exam room has its own unique destination-inspired theme, which immediately gave us a sense of calm. During Mailbox’s check-up, I noticed how different the process felt compared to other clinics. I was actually taken to the back and got a behind-the-scenes look at what Vets do!

"I think our biggest differentiators is we try to involve the pet owner as much as possible," Dr. Bello told me. "So I know a lot of people are like, 'oh, they took my dog to the back...' and nothing bad happens to your pet in the back, I promise, but I understand like as I've gotten older, and I have a kid, that there is this kind of 'mysteriousness' about what's going on back there, and why is it taking so long. And so the idea with Vetopia was, why don't we just have the owner be present for the appointment as much as possible? Not only so that they feel more comfortable and their pets feel more comfortable, but I think it's really important for people to see what we do behind the scenes, because I think that it gives more value to what we as an industry provide."
It was neat seeing firsthand the team caring for my sweet fur baby. And rather than rushing through, Dr. Bello carefully walked me through everything she was seeing. That level of transparency made me feel empowered and connected- like I was truly part of Mailbox’s care.
Vetopia has also invested in technology to make that collaboration seamless. Screens and tablets in the exam rooms allow pet parents to see diagnostics in real time.
And honestly? The vibe is just different. With cozy touches, a coffee machine, and music playing softly in the background, it feels nothing like a sterile, intimidating clinic.
“We want it to feel like you’re not at a hospital, but you’re just hanging out in your living room… It’s a really relaxed, upbeat vibe. Most of the time we have good tunes going on, so it’s just like a fun feel.”
Mailbox certainly picked up on that- instead of being anxious like he has been at other clinics, he wagged his way through the visit. It truly felt like a place designed for both pets and their people to feel comfortable.

Family-Owned, Not Corporate
At a time when many veterinary clinics are being bought by large corporations, Vetopia is proudly family-owned.
“Family owned was really important to us… a lot of hospitals are being bought by corporate entities, and people feel like they’re losing that family feel. We wanted this to be the opposite.”
Dr. Bello says building Vetopia with her husband has made the journey even more meaningful.
“At the end of it, being able to step back and the two of us know that we did this together- it just makes it that much sweeter.”
A Vision for the Future
Vetopia isn’t just focused on one clinic- it’s about becoming part of the community.
“My bigger vision for Vetopia is to be super involved in the community- community outreach, helping the pets of Chattanooga. One day maybe opening another location, but the goal is to support Chattanooga and the pets as much as we can.”
Vetopia Info:
address: 1043 Executive Drive, Suite 104, Hixson, TN 37343
Contact: (423) 644-2125, info@vetopia.vet
Website: https://www.vetopia.vet/
Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Saturday–Sunday: Closed
TLDR?
Dr. Bello sums it up best:
“The one thing I’d want Chattanooga to know about Vetopia is that we care as much about them as we do their pets. We want this to be a collaborative experience.”
With its people-first philosophy, calming environment, and family-owned approach, Vetopia is ready to become a true second home for Chattanooga’s pets and their parents.
To watch some of my interview with Dr. Bello and hear more about Mailbox's and my experience, check out my Instagram reel on @webbchatts!