Release Tension: Massage and Hydrotherapy in the Southern Gulf Islands

What does wellness look like for you? Is it the firm glide of hands across your shoulders, kneading away the weight of the world? Or perhaps a steamy session in a cedar sauna followed by an arctic plunge? 

Wellness takes many forms on the Southern Gulf Islands, from Nordic circuits nestled among arbutus trees to deep tissue massages from expert hands in serene private studios.

Of course, a few days spent here is a wellness retreat in itself, but why stop there? Reach that next level of relaxation: Book a soothing hot stone massage, sweat it out in a sauna, or take the leap—literally—into the cold ocean.

Need a bit of inspiration? Here are just a few local spots to help you attain that next step along your wellness journey.

Massage and Bodywork

The go-to gateway to a weekend of wellness is a massage. From deep tissue to hot stone to a certified RMT, book a time with one of the Islands’ local practitioners to release tension and, finally, find relief. With an hour spent in a warm, cozy space, getting worked by strong, reassuring hands, you’ll release more than just tense muscles. And don’t forget to drink water after your session.

• Book a session with Angela Thompson RMT on Galiano, whether it’s bodywork or yoga.
• From aromatherapy to reflexology, Galiano’s oceanfront spa awaits you at Madrona del Mar.
• Let Tru Hartwoods’ (RMT) intuitive hands locate your source of pain and tension at the Pender Island Health Center.
• Explore a new type of massage, from Mayan abdominal massage to Hawaiian Lomi Lomi at Stillpoint Bodywork on Salt Spring.
• Whether you are seeking relief or relaxation, find it at Soma Studios on Salt Spring.
• Schedule an hour of self-care on Mayne with Kim Fairall, RMT.
• Explore the mind & soul with a massage that goes beyond the body, with Meadow Dove on Mayne.

Hydrotherapy

Hot, cold, hot, cold, and over and over again—hydrotherapy is the art of hot and cold cycling perfected in the Nordic tradition. You can book accommodation with a private hot tub, or you could seek out the places on the Islands designed for a West Coast outdoor soak. But whether or not you take the cold plunge is up to you.

• Chop some wood, stoke the fire, then slip inside a steamy private sauna barrel at the Salty Pear on Salt Spring.
• No matter the weather, spend a few hours soaking in Poet’s Cove Healing Spa’s indoor hot tub on Pender.
• Sweat it out at the indoor pool facilities at Mayne Island Resort, including a sauna and hot tub.
• Staying at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa? Luckily for you, they have a spa hot tub on site for guests’ enjoyment.

No matter what island you find yourself on this weekend, the Southern Gulf Islands offer endless opportunities for release. While you are here, take some time to reconnect with your body by treating yourself to a massage, sauna, or soak. 

If you are looking to connect with more than just your body, you can always check out other paths to wellness unique to these islands. But whatever journey you are on, take a deep breath, book your session, and let the Islands work their magic.

Written by Jessica McKeil