It’s no secret that I enjoy being treated to a couple hours at the spa. Before having kids I would go to spas without much thought. But now having kids and working, it’s not always top of mind and I’ve always considered it a “treat”.
I was chatting with my friend Leslie the other day about what we usually do with our precious free mommy time. We’d run errands, catch up with girlfriends, and go shopping. But then we started daydreaming about the spa-hhh!
As moms, we often put everyone else first. That’s just the way we are. But I’ve noticed more blogs and articles about how women need to take care of ourselves not just for us, but for the better of everyone around us. Makes sense, right?
Then came the invitation from Iyashi Bedrock Spa.
Leslie and I were invited to this spa in Toronto. It’s unlike any other spa in Toronto…or Canada for that matter. So it piqued our interest. Iyashi is the first Ganbanyoku (Rock Bathing) spa in North America and judging by the number of people there midday on Thursday, it’s something worth experiencing!
A bit of Ganbanyoku history…the Japanese people have been lying on natural stone for many generations. They claim that the Black Silica stone heals and detoxifies the body. And this stone is only found in one mountain in Hokkaido, Japan. Iyashi’s Ganbanyoku smooth stone beds are warmed to a soothing temperature that allows for your body to gradually heat up to release tension and rid of toxins from the inside out. There are over 4000 Ganbanyoku spas in Japan alone.
When we arrived we were greeted in a tranquil reception area. There is an area for women in the “traditional suite” complete with changeroom, showers, lounge and washroom. And another area for men as well as couples. We were given spa outfits to wear during our stay. Towels were laid on top of the smooth black rocks. We took our spots lying belly down for the first 20 minutes as instructed. I felt a sense of calm wash over me. It’s feels more like a rainforest rather than a sauna. It was warm in the room but not unbearable. And literally I felt an energy pulling me down into the rocks. We were told to take a break for 5 minutes and go back in. The second 20 minutes is when the toxins are released and you will sweat!
After the session, we met with Ryusuke Juge, VP of the Iyashi Bedrock Spa. He instructed us to not shower for 2 hours this allowing the skin a natural cool down and to let the benefits settle. I thought that sweating would leave my skin feeling kinda greasy. Not so! Ryusuke told us that with this type of sweat it actually leaves your skin soft and hydrated. We both noticed that immediately! A few hours later, after I washed my hair, I definitely noticed a lighter and softer feel.
Ryusuke also mentioned that there are many other benefits to Ganbanyoku:
~Metabolism increase (apparently you can burn 700-1500 in calories in a 60 minute treatment)
~Strengthens the immune system
~Mental alertness
~Anti-aging by stimulating increased blood flow, circulation and oxygen to the skin
~Detox: releases harmful metals as it heats deep tissues particularly in the midriff area.
~Muscle relaxant which promotes recovery, greater flexibility and range of motion.
The Iyashi Bedrock Spa has been receiving media attention from TV, Newspapers and bloggers. It was noted as one of the top 5 unique spas in the world by New Beauty Magazine and rated 10/10 for relieving stress from Toronto Life. E! has also revealed it as a spa trend that has athletes and celebrities seeking them out.
Now I understand what the hype is all about. MY BODY IS ACHING TO GO BACK! Seriously! And for an hour or so, I think this mom deserves it! It’s not just a treat but a sense of well-being! I felt rejuvenated and in a better state of mind. It’s a spa like no other! Iyashi strives to provide spa guests with the most authentic rock bathing experience outside of Japan.
Iyashi Bedrock Spa also offers hot yoga sessions. Leslie said she’ll go check it out soon. But me…I’m LOVIN’ the Ganbanyoku. I will be returning to warm my soul and to rid of those toxins.
There are plans for Iyashi to expand to other locations in Canada but for now you can visit them in Toronto at 2662 Yonge Street in the hopping Yonge & Eglinton area.
For more information, please visit the website at www.iyashibedrockspa.com
I’ve done some pretty interesting spa treatments in the past. Hot stone massages, seaweed wraps, chocolate treatments and Ganbanyoku is now one of my favourites.
So, how about you? Do you make time for yourself? Think you’d like to experience this spa or have you ever tried any different types of treatments? Let me know! I’m always game to try something new!
Hey! I know what you mean about not knowing what to do or expect at a spa! I’m glad you’ve read this post and hopefully it gave you a sense of what the experience is like. That’s my goal! I try stuff and let our readers in on “the experience”.
Every spa I’ve ever been to caters to newbies and loyalists. So, don’t worry! Their goal is to make sure your time (and money) is well-spent. They are all very inviting and if you let them know it’s your first time, they’ll make sure all your questions are answered!
But hey, a walk on the beach on a nature’s path soothes the soul too! I’ll take that any day!
Cheers!
I went to their website and this is something I will definitely check out. I have been to different spas and the pricing is very comparable.
Oh wow!
I must admit, I am not a fan of spa’s…well no, that’s a lie! I just never been to one!! I have always wanted to try one, but just never had the time, nor the extra money. And to be honest, as a mother of two, who is also suffering from being extremely self-concious, can’t seem to sign in a beautiful spa, being handed my spa outfit to roam around in all day! Then comes along this fear of not knowing what to do!
I know it seems a little crazy and juvenile, I am an adult, but it’s something I’ve always feared. Trust me when I say I am like any other mom who would LOVE to get an hour or two massage in my spare time!! But I just can’t seem to get past my annoying fears.
When I do have some hours of freedom when Grandad has the kids, my boyfriend and I feel lucky just to roam the nature path’s by our house for an hour or two. Or just walking up and down the beach talking and throwing rocks. Seems old fashioned and not as fun as the spa..I know! But it’s definitely relaxing and even kills some carbs (which we all love to do!).
But I do hope one day, to make it to a spa and experience something so wonderful.
And trust me…if it does happen…Iyashi Bedrock Spa is my number ONE choice!!
Looks so warm, inviting and has many benefits to our bodies, that us mom’s need!
Looks beautiful… wow!!