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The RECESS thermal space — soft lighting, steam and warm waters in an immersive setting in Griffintown. Evening atmosphere inside RECESS — the cold plunge space illuminated in deep blue light.

A new ritual
for urban life

Sauna + Ice bath + Lounge

RELAX

Slow, gentle, and deeply soothing sessions designed to regulate the nervous system. RELAX invites you to ground yourself, breathe, and return to yourself. Meditation, mindfulness, and enveloping warmth combine to release tension, quiet the mind, and cultivate a state of deep rest.

Our experiences

BOOK YOUR SESSION

How to prepare
for your arrival?

01

Book Online

Using our online schedule, create your account and book your session.

BOOK YOUR SESSION
02

What to Bring

Just bring your swimsuit (required), good energy, and an open mind. Towels, glasses, filtered water, and tea are provided on site.

03

Arrive Early

Sessions begin exactly on time. We recommend arriving 10 to 15 minutes before the start of your session to settle in, hydrate, and enter the experience calmly.

217 Rue Young
Montréal, Québec, Canada
H3C 2E9
Located in the heart of Griffintown, steps from the Lachine Canal. Whether you arrive on foot, by bike, or by car, plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to get settled and start your session smoothly.

Where to park

the benefits of thermotherapy

Thermotherapy supports the body and mind at multiple levels: building resilience and recovery, and cultivating presence. The effects are immediate and lasting.

Improved cardiovascular health

Stress reduction

Cognitive prevention

Immune strengthening

Better sleep

Elimination of certain toxins

Anti-inflammatory effect

Metabolic benefits

Respiratory support

Cellular regeneration

Improved cardiovascular health

Stress reduction

Cognitive prevention

Immune strengthening

Better sleep

Elimination of certain toxins

Anti-inflammatory effect

Metabolic benefits

Respiratory support

Cellular regeneration

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I come alone?

Absolutely. RECESS is designed for solo visitors and groups alike. Many people come alone for recovery, personal reflection, and find an inspiring anchor in the shared space.

Is it guided or self-directed?

Both options are available. You can book a guided session or explore the thermal circuit at your own pace with a freeflow session.

How long is a session?

75 minutes.

Is it safe for everyone?

Contrast therapy is generally safe for healthy adults. However, if you are pregnant or have medical/cardiac conditions, consult your healthcare professional before participating.

Is there a quiet zone?

There is no completely silent zone at RECESS. That said, some sessions are designed to offer a calmer, more introspective atmosphere. The Calm Freeflow, for example, is ideal if you are looking for more silence and space to settle. Relax sessions are also quieter, without being completely silent. RECESS remains a social, lively and connected space. Most of our sessions invite exchange and conversation, always with respect for the energy of the moment.

Which session do you recommend for a first visit?

It depends on the experience you want to have. Freeflow — Perfect for a gentle first discovery. You explore the circuit at your own pace, independently, getting acquainted with thermotherapy according to your energy. A guide will still be on-site to support you as needed. Relax — A guided, enveloping and accessible session. Ideal if you want to be supported without it being too intense. Recharge — A more dynamic and energising guided experience. We raise the pace, play with contrasts and come out revitalised. Physical Recovery — Designed for athletes and active bodies. A guided session focused on muscle recovery and regeneration. Whatever you choose, our team is always there to guide you and answer your questions.

What are the etiquette rules?

- Always sit on a towel in the sauna (from buttocks to feet). - Always rinse off before entering a cold plunge. - Respectful conversation is encouraged in the sauna, rest area and changing rooms. Note that this is a flirt-free space. - Changing must be done in privacy. Full nudity is not permitted.

How do I use the space?

In a guided session, simply follow your guide. Breathe, listen to your body and be present. In Freeflow, here is what we recommend: 1. Start with 15 to 20 minutes in the sauna to wake up the body and calm the mind. 2. Follow with a quick cold plunge (30 seconds is enough, or 1 to 3 minutes depending on your comfort) to activate your system and reset. 3. Finish with 5 to 15 minutes in the rest area, let your body warm up naturally while you relax and reconnect. 4. Repeat if you wish and listen to your body.

What is inside?

A large sauna (~50 seats), a cold plunge area, spacious showers, a relaxation lounge, a filtered tea and water station, and a mixed changing room with secure lockers and private changing cabins.