Celebrating anniversaries has always been a sentimental milestone for my wife and me.
This year, we both agreed to trade in the usual dinner reservations for something different—an afternoon at RCVRI, Toronto’s newly-opened performance wellness space downtown. I’ll admit, we went in with some healthy skepticism. How different could hot and cold pools really be compared to the hotel spas I’ve tried before?
Walking into RCVRI, I was struck by the contemporary yet relaxed vibe. A welcoming team walked us through each wellness modality. We were offered a brief orientation—useful for first-timers like us—before we set off to explore.
Full disclosure: I am not a natural enthusiast for cold plunges. With the water chilling at 8ºC, my initial plan was just to dunk a foot in and call it bravery. I tried seven times—yes, seven—to muster the nerve to get in, only to leap back out after a few shivering seconds each go.
On my eighth try, after a little encouragement from my wife and coaxing from the team (who, impressively, didn’t tease me at all), I managed to lower myself in up to mid-chest. The first 30 seconds were pure adrenaline. The staff reassured me—two minutes was enough to trigger health benefits like reduced inflammation, improved circulation, and a big endorphin rush that comes with an “I did it!” feeling. It was genuinely shocking to realize I’d made it to five minutes before finally hopping out. Apparently, benefits level off at two, but I stayed for the story. I never thought I’d say it, but I left feeling oddly refreshed and with what felt like a runner’s high, minus the run.
If you’ve ever sat in a sauna that felt like breathing in lava, you’ll appreciate my relief that RCVRI’s sauna is an exception. The temperature hit the ideal sweet spot: hot, but not unbearably so. I could breathe comfortably and linger while we chatted, feeling muscles gently relax after the cold plunge. Saunas, I learned, work wonders for vascular health—alternating heat and cold can help dilate and constrict blood vessels, boosting circulation and aiding recovery for sore muscles.
Of all the modalities, the 37ºC hot pool was by far my favorite. The sensation of mini-jets massaging my back as I floated was pure bliss. After the shock of the cold plunge and the gentle heat of the sauna, soaking in this pool felt like the perfect conclusion—a sensation of lightness that’s rare outside of a tropical vacation. Spending time here reportedly helps relax muscles, reduces joint pain, and is even good for cardiovascular relaxation.
RCVRI’s light therapy suite (Theralight) was new territory for both of us. Reclining in the light therapy box, bathed in soothing wavelengths, was both calming and energizing. The staff explained that these sessions can aid with: neck and back pain, increased blood flow, mood, skin health, and even sleep regulation, by mimicking the beneficial effects of sunlight, especially valuable in a city like Toronto during the winter months.
Located right by the large front windows, the leg compression therapy (NormaTec) had me slipping into leg sleeves that gently pulsed and squeezed—never uncomfortably. It genuinely felt like a massage for my legs while I enjoyed some quality people-watching. The therapy can boost venous return and lymphatic drainage, perfect for anyone with tired legs from sitting or standing all day.
An added plus was the Superior suite, offering private wellness experience with a cold plunge and sauna for small and intimate gatherings (from one to six people, I would guess).
The staff were knowledgeable, friendly, and patient. They answered our many questions, never rushed us, and seemed to genuinely love what they do. After our sessions, the spacious showers provided a nice wind-down, though my only mild complaint was that the provided soap didn’t lather much—I’m a bit picky about these things. It wouldn’t stop me from coming back, but if you’re particular, consider bringing your own.
RCVRI is a gem for anyone looking to break out of their wellness routine, soak up some innovative self-care, or just enjoy a relaxing, healthy afternoon downtown. Whether you’re a sauna purist, cold plunge skeptic, or just after a quality “shvitz” and people-watching session, this spot delivers.
We left feeling lighter, and more energetic—already planning our next visit. If you’re seeking an experience that’s both cutting-edge and genuinely restorative, RCVRI is worth the visit.
