Rock-Bathing @ Iyashi Bedrock Spa, Toronto

Feel like unwinding on hot rocks after a gruelling week at the office? Yes, that’s right. I sweated out my stress at the Iyashi Bedrock Spa – the only facility in North America with Ganbanyoku or “rock-bathing.”

Rock-bathing uses black silica stone slabs from Japan to heat your body. You lie down on the warm rock bed to relax and soothe your muscles. Some claim that black silica has healing powers and that the act of sweating can help detox the body. It’s all the rage in Japan, with over 4000 spas across the country. I couldn’t wait to check it out!

Arriving at Iyashi, the friendly staff gave me a robe, towel, slippers, and a key to a locker.  Ladies, that rolled-up white cloth is not a hat, but disposable undies...

In the rock-bathing room, I stretched out on the stone bed, rotating my position every five minutes or so. It wasn’t long before the warmth worked into my lower back and did its magic.  It felt like a giant heating pad.

The stone beds are kept between 42° to 44° C with the humidity at about 60%, so expect to sweat. I found this experience to be far more comfortable than a sauna or steam room and I thoroughly enjoyed basking in the warmth.

After 15 minutes, I retreated to the “cool down” room for green tea and magazines. I felt tingly and relaxed and after a rest, I returned to the rock bathing room for round two.

Did you know that rock bathing burns about 700 calories per hour? Rock-bathing has many reported health benefits, such as pain relief, stress reduction, weight loss, improved mental health, and strengthened immune system. As for me – I slept like a baby later that night.

Iyashi Bedrock Spa has a private “Deluxe Suite” that can be reserved for up to four people. It has its own “cool down” room and bathroom. Perfect for parties or date nights.

One 60-minute session at Iyashi Bedrock Spa costs $47.50 and there are also packages with discounted prices. Yoga Enthusiasts take note: Iyashi Bedrock Spa offers a 60-minute Hot Yoga class every day, except Friday. Book in advance because the class fills up FAST! And remember to drink 1-2 glasses of water before your session to stay hydrated.

Iyashi Bedrock Spa 
2662 Yonge Street (North of Eglinton Station)
Toronto, Ontario
M4P 2J5

Phone: 416-488-ROCK (7625)
Email: info@iyashibedrockspa.com
Hours: 10am-9pm (Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat), 9:30am-9pm (Thurs, Sun)