Total Body Rejuvenation at the Whistler Scandinave Spa

It’s been a super soggy and gloomy winter in BC, and as much as I thought not having to bundle up like a mummy to go out in minus 30 arctic weather (like my Ontario lovelies) would make me more gung-ho to be out and about, the reality is this west coast rain has turned me into a sunshine deprived grumpy housecat.

I find it pretty neat how my body can tell me what it needs if I’m mindful enough to listen to it, and lately it’s been crying out for some much deprived mother nature time.

So this Family Day long weekend, I indulged in some R&R in Whistler…..snowboarding through fluffy powder in picturesque terrain while breathing in fresh mountain air and then letting myself completely melt away at the Scandinave Spa.

The Scandinave Spa is a full service spa tucked away in the forest on the edge of Lost Lake, just north of Whistler Village. This outdoor nature spa is most recognized for their Scandinavian Bath experience, also known as hydrotherapy.

It’s benefits include:

• soothing tired muscles
• eliminating toxins
• improving circulation
• awakening the senses
• and creating a general sense of well-being

While it may seem a little crazy to follow their Hot -> Cold sequence in the middle of winter.

1. Warming your body for 10-15 mins in the eucalyptus steam room, wood burning Finnish sauna, hot baths or thermal waterfall
2. Dunking your body in a cold bath or shower for 10-30 seconds
3. Relaxing for a minimum of 15 minutes in your choice of solariums, hammocks, terraces or around an outdoor fireplace

The hot-cold cycle is hugely beneficial in first increasing blood flow to the skin and muscles by warming the body to create a sense of deep relaxation and to stimulate the immune system.

The second step of the Scandinavian Bath experience closes the pores of the skin with a quick cold rinse to reduce inflammation and to stimulate circulation, which then boosts the immune system.

At first I dreaded the cold part, but after the initial shock in temperature change, it was actually quite refreshing.

That coupled with some relaxation time to let the body and mind rest was the perfect mix.

Oh did I mention there is no talking at the spa! There are many signs around the baths to remind you of this and staff actually do go around and ask you to refrain from talking so that everyone can enjoy some peace and quiet amongst the great outdoors while listening to the calming sound of running water.

There are several Scandinave Spas in Canada and you can actually get a deal by buying a $75 WaySpa E-certificate through Costco.ca which will get you a $100 worth of credit for use at any of their locations.

I highly recommend trying this out in the winter if you’ve never been.
And if you’ve been before I’d love to know what your fave thing at the Scandinave Spa is? Mine is definitely the Eucalyptus steam room. Leave a comment below and tell me yours.