Over the years the spa as a concept has changed significantly; what was once a euphemism for fat camp has become a haven for hedonists with handfuls of cash to come and drop their riches on luxuriant wraps, coconut exfoliants, and blackhead removal. The spa’s concern, in other words, has changed from health to high living. But the new incarnation of Healthwinds, which just opened on Mount Pleasant, aims to encompass spa life, both of the wellness-focused past and the luxuriant-leaning present.

Healthwinds, which was formerly located in the Medical Arts building, now serenely sits just off Yonge St. in a much less clinical space. This is not to say that the new Healthwinds has sacrificed any of the health and wellness programs available at the previous spot; owner, Kailee Kline simply would not permit such a lack of responsibility to her clientele. Kline, who has been a registered massage therapist since 1977 and has helped set-up renowned spas located at spots such as the Old Mill Inn, the Windsor Arms Hotel, and the Millcroft Inn , knows how to run a health spa.

According to Kline, aside from running the proper programs, at the right price, the atmosphere has to convey perfectly the core values of the spa. Channeling the design sensibilities of Connie Braemar, the milieu of this Toronto Spa, is pristine in its crisp whiteness (white lockers, white hanstone countertops, creamy white furniture, even white tulips), yet warm with its mix of natural light and glowing fireplaces. Walking into the spot, you feel as if you’ve just walked into the center of a perfectly formed cloud – white without a hint of starkness and clean without being sterile, but most of all, Healthwinds is soft.

Speaking of soft, Healthwinds offers a variety of services to keep your skin supple, your muscles free of tension, and your mind stress free. The spa also pleases with an impressive roster of services from waxing, manicures, and pedicures, to facials, and body polishes, to wellness and nutritional counseling. Unique to Healthwinds, however, is its unique form of hydrotherapy – the Kneipp Method – which was developed by a German Bath Master in Baden Baden Germany. Each individual who works in the spa must go through a rigorous, 16-hour program, designed by Kline, to learn this 19th century healing practice. This bath treatment combats fatigue, pain, and tension by massaging muscles with a high-pressure water wand and employs natural herbal essences, detoxifying mud, and sea elements.

Healthwinds carries a variety of age-fighting, skincare lines including Guinot, Cellcosmet, and Eminence but personally I didn’t need to make a purchase I felt younger just stepping into the Hogtown oasis. – E.H


Healthwinds, 650 Mt Pleasant Rd
Toronto, ON, Canada
416-488-9545