In a recent TikTok post, Australian influencer Dominique Elissa shared a harrowing near-death experience that unfolded during her preparation for a wellness retreat on a remote property in northern New South Wales. In her video, she described the isolation of the location, noting that there were no neighbors within 200 meters and no cell reception, setting the stage for a terrifying incident. A night before the event, Elissa was relaxing in an outdoor sauna and turned it on to warm up the space before stepping outside. Just as she was about to change into her swimwear, she heard a loud explosion followed by the sight of the sauna erupting into flames, reaching heights of up to 15 meters. The chaos that ensued left her without power or means of communication, evoking a panic-stricken response as she screamed for help.
Fortunately, despite the lack of cell service, Elissa was able to reach local authorities for assistance. Reflecting on the trauma, she recounted the frantic moments following the explosion, expressing disbelief at the situation. “Thank God, I’m literally shaking, I can’t breathe,” she recalled, as three fire trucks arrived to combat the ensuing fire. The sauna, located about 50 meters from her house on a hill, was completely destroyed. This life-threatening incident profoundly affected Elissa, who acknowledged how close she had come to stepping into the sauna just moments before it exploded.
Following the ordeal, Elissa demonstrated remarkable resilience by continuing with the wellness workshop the next day, despite grappling with anxiety and feelings of shock. She articulated the emotional toll of the event, admitting that it was challenging to regain her composure. By the end of her video, she conveyed a sense of gratitude for her survival, vowing to seek therapy and share her experience with a larger audience. Her powerful message emphasized the fragility of life and the unpredictability of circumstances we may face, reflecting on how essential it is to cherish every moment.
In the days that followed, Elissa decided to take it easy, opting for a low-profile approach in her life post-incident. She communicated with her followers, emphasizing that it is not just about the events we encounter but how we choose to respond that ultimately shapes our experiences. Her honest reflection and encouragement for self-care resonated with fans, many of whom offered sympathy and support through their comments on social media.
As she processed the traumatic experience, her substantial social media following became a source of empathy and connection, with her audience expressing both concern for her well-being and curiosity regarding the sauna brand involved in the incident. Comments from followers included requests for further details about the sauna to prevent future accidents, which showcased their shared apprehension while highlighting the powerful influence of her platform in spreading awareness about safety in wellness practices.
Elissa’s story serves as a powerful reminder of life’s unpredictability and the importance of mental well-being in the aftermath of traumatic events. By sharing her thoughts and feelings publicly, she not only raises awareness about the risks associated with wellness activities but also promotes the value of seeking help and support in times of distress. Her experience encapsulates a broader message: that we must remain vigilant about our safety while also prioritizing our mental health through positive coping mechanisms and community support.
