THE NATURE OF NURTURING
Whistler Spas
Not only are Whistler’s ski slopes ranked among the best, its spas are both world-class and award-winning. And just as mountain ski resorts adapt and grow with ever-changing consumer demands, Whistler spas have adapted their treatments and products to meet the demands of today’s sophisticated clientele.
The Spa at the Four Seasons was recognized as the “#1 Hotel Spa in Canada” by Travel and Leisure in 2014. Spa Director Caitlin Hubbard says, “One of our skin-care and body-care lines, “Amala,” used in our signature body treatments and facials, contains no synthesized chemicals or fragrances and only 100 per cent natural essential oils.” They also feature a local product line that incorporates organic seaweed, essential oils and botanicals that are indigenous to B.C. Other natural and organic lines that are used in treatments include Coola Suncare, Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics and SpaRitual Nail Polishes and Body Care Products. “With any product we bring into the spa, we are mindful of the production techniques, company philosophies and quality of the ingredients they use,” Hubbard says. Lead Massage Therapist Jackie Goldbloom says, “Pacific Northwest clientele have always shown a concern for organics and sustainable products. Now I am questioned more and more by our international guests.” 604-966-2620 | fourseasons.com /whistler/spa At the Fairmont Chateau Whistler’s Vida Spa, treatments are designed to complement individual personalities and “dosha” through the principles of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old system of holistic Indian medicine. According to this philosophy, the key to a long and healthy life is achieving a balance between body, mind and spirit. “Everyone is typically dominant in one of three doshas – Vata, Pitta or Kapha,” says Bonnie Juniper, spa manager. “The key is to bring all into balance. Our Ayurvedic line of oils is customized for each client.” The spa offers Ayurvedic massage treatments designed to relieve muscle tension and boost the immune system. “Vata treatments use eucalyptus for breathing, fennel to eliminate toxins and help with oily and mature skins, ginger to improve circulation and rosemary to detoxify. Pitta use fennel, lavender and sandalwood for stress and anxiety, lemongrass for the digestive system and peppermint for pain. Kapha uses sweet basil for nervous exhaustion, juniper berry to clear toxins, cellulite and fatigue.” 1-800-401-4018 | vidaspas.com/ locations/fairmont-chateau-whistler
The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge was recently honoured in the “Top 10 Organic Spas” award from Organic Spa Magazine – the first spa in Canada to win the award since 2012. Publisher Beverly Maloney-Fischback says the award is the result of “an incredible focus on organic treatments as well as sustainability and green business initiatives.” The spa uses ilā, an organic U.K.-based product line that sources its ingredients from remote areas of the world and prides itself on being both effective and ethical. The key ingredients used in the ilā line are argan oil, nourishing and moisturizing with anti-aging properties; detoxifying Himalayan salt crystals; and Rose Otto oil for aromatherapy and cell rejuvenation. Spa Manager Hannah Edwards says this product line is used in a range of treatments, including two of the spa’s signature treatments: ilā Kundalini massage, a unique back massage using oils and ancient massage techniques for well-being and a restorative effect on the nervous system, and the ilā Ananda facial, designed to relieve stress and tension in the face.
604-966-5715 | nitalakelodge.com