Oasis Spa Review - Toronto

By Pegah Aarabi

      While everyone might want a day at the spa, sometimes you just NEED a day at the spa. I was in such a state of need – jet-lag coupled with recent wedding stresses – when I booked a visit to the Oasis Wellness Center and Spa. Having been to many spas – a massage is as necessary as a trim – I knew more or less what to expect. I was, however, pleasantly surprised to find a unique experience within three floors of open space, complete with a quiet reading area, a separate sleep/nap area and even a creative centre where you can paint – that's right, I said paint, with water on stone!

When your inner Picasso is satisfied you may want to look up at the ceilings to notice the wooden beams that surround the entire spa. Why is this interesting? Because the 23,000 square foot spa was once a brewery, which highlights the spas one-of-a-kind location, in downtown Toronto's trendy Distillery Historic District – think small slice of Berlin. The location is also a key feature for couples, not only can you actually book a couples massage in a couples room – the smaller spas are always booked – but once your spa session is done you can walk through the restaurant-laden district and enjoy a pint or two.

But getting back to my own needed spa experience, after changing into a warm terry bathrobe I relaxed with a mint leaf tea in the sitting area, before I was wisked away for my 60-minute synergy massage. A blend of essential oils melted away my mix of worries, while my back, shoulders, and legs (including feet) were massaged. I nearly fell asleep to the gentle hymns that played in the background, and having been in a few cold spa rooms, I was very happy with the warm-but-not-stuffy temperature.

After the massage I opted for some reading, water-painting – try it before you judge – and fifteen minutes in the sauna. An added stroll through the cobble-stoned streets of the Distillery District and I completely forgot why I was so worried in the first place, and when I remember, at least I know where to go.

Check them out online at www.experienceoasis.ca