frequently asked questions about
MIST THERMAL SANCTUARY
Mist is a commercially zoned facility that is monitored by Vancouver Coastal Health and follows their operation guidelines.
If you have any other inquiries that are not covered in our most commonly asked questions, please reach out.
FAQs
about Mist Thermal and cold plunging
Before Your Visit
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We recommend consulting your healthcare provider to confirm that this experience is safe for you. Our dry saunas reach a maximum temperature of approximately 76°C / 170°F. Pregnant guests are advised to use our facilities at their own risk.
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Cold plunging affects women differently than men, particularly around hormonal fluctuations, the menstrual cycle, and perimenopause. Research into cold water immersion and contrast therapy for women is growing. If you are pregnant, perimenopausal, or managing a health condition, speak with your healthcare provider before your visit. Mist's blog also covers cold plunge considerations for women in more detail.
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Many guests report leaving Mist with a notable reduction in mental and physical tension. Research on vagus nerve stimulation through cold water immersion is well documented. The forested setting and pacing of the Mist circuit support nervous system settling further. If you have a diagnosed nervous system condition, speak with your healthcare provider before booking.
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Alcohol, cannabis, and drugs are strictly prohibited at Mist Thermal Sanctuary. The consumption of these substances during a session may compromise the positive effects of thermal hydrotherapy and may lead to undesirable effects like a sudden drop in blood pressure, resulting in lightheadedness or fainting.
We understand that thermal therapy can work up an appetite, so feel free to bring a snack for yourself afterward. Additionally, bringing a beverage rich in electrolytes, like coconut water, is recommended. Mist provides filtered water and caffeine-free herbal tea on-site. -
Vancouver Coastal Health requires individuals with colds, rashes, and open wounds to NOT use the premises. Bookings can be canceled with the link provided in your confirmation email and receive a full refund up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled booking. If you are experiencing symptoms, and your session is less than 48 hours away, please email us.
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Yes, our venue accommodates wheelchairs and some other accessibility challenges. If you have concerns, please email us before you make your booking so we can make sure we make the proper arrangements.
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Guests must be 19 or older to visit Mist Thermal Sanctuary unaccompanied by a guardian. That said, we gladly receive guests aged 16 and above, provided they are accompanied by a legal guardian throughout the entire Mist Contrast Therapy Circuit experience. The legal guardian is required to sign a liability waiver on behalf of the underage guest.
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Mist Thermal Sanctuary is located at 720 Gardner Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2. As we share the grounds with our sister venue, Nectar Retreat Centre, please follow the designated pathway in, and park in any available spot after the bridge.
After parking, please make your way south/west along the lit forest path to the guest check-in building.
Read more on our How To Get To Bowen section. -
Have a read on our Getting to Bowen (and getting to Mist) page, where we also share BC Ferries’ schedule, and public transit.
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As we share the grounds with our sister venue, Nectar Retreat Centre, please follow the designated road, and park in any available spot after the bridge.
After parking, please make your way south/west along the lit forest path to the guest check-in building. -
To ensure you have the most seamless and enjoyable Mist Experience, we kindly ask that you arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time. Arriving earlier than this is not necessary, as it helps us maintain a welcoming and personalized experience for each guest/party. Should you anticipate being more than 15 minutes late, we would greatly appreciate it if you could email us at hello@mistthermal.com. We may not be able to extend your session if you arrive late.
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Things to bring include:
Bathing suit
Warm, waterproof layers for after the session
Water bottle (optional, cups are provided)
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Prices start at $199 for a 90-minute circuit (1-2 guests) and $249 for a 120-minute circuit (1-2 guests). Each additional guest (up to 2 guests) is $69. GST is included. These are introductory prices.
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Gift certificates can be purchased here. Thank you!
The Mist Experience
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Mist Thermal Sanctuary offers a holistic thermal spa experience with a range of immersive elements, including wet and dry sensations, hot and cold environments, and both indoor and covered outdoor spaces. Amenities include a dry sauna, cold plunge, transition tub, open fire, and eucalyptus-misted shower. Contrast hydrotherapy, also known as the Nordic Cycle, addresses physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, honouring the sacred and ritualistic significance of water.
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Forest bathing, known in Japanese as shinrin yoku, is the practice of spending intentional time in the presence of trees. This includes walking slowly, sitting within the forest, breathing deeply, and allowing the senses to settle into the natural environment. Unlike hiking, forest bathing has no destination. According to Dr. Qing Li's research on forest bathing published in National Library of Medicine, time among trees is linked to lower cortisol, reduced heart rate, and supported nervous system regulation. At Mist, forest bathing begins the moment you step onto the forested path to the thermal units, and continues through your circuit, between cycles of heat and cold, in the presence of conifers.
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Mist Contrast Therapy Circuit offers the choice of a 90 mins or 120 mins session:
a relaxing outdoor hot/cold shower with Mist’s house eucalyptus shower spray
a wood-fire sauna that looks out to the forest
a cold plunge tub
a transition soaking tub
and a cultivated, natural outdoor rest area with fire
Guests also enjoy these complimentary:
Waffle robe
Towels
Footwear
Filtered drinking water
Mist’s bespoke herbal tea blend
Mist’s house shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and body lotion
Hair dryer
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The experience is designed for one to four people per unit. The intention of the Mist Contrast Therapy Circuit experience is to minimize distraction and allow you to disconnect from the outside world, deeply relax, reconnect with yourself and others.
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Mist Contrast Therapy Circuits can be booked 7 days a week for 90 minute or 120 minute sessions, starting from 12:45PM, with the last session of the day starting at 7PM.
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Unlike traditional spas, Mist Thermal Sanctuary provides a quiet, self-guided experience with exclusive use of a private sauna unit for each guest or group of 4 max. We use filtered aquifer water and emphasize privacy and sustainability amidst a lush temperate forest on Bowen Island. Guests can also extend their stay with a 2-night booking at our sister venue, Nectar Retreat Centre, subject to availability.
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Mist offers a serene contrast therapy venue, providing a quiet space for individuals and small groups to savour the peaceful environment or speak in lowered voices.
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Washrooms are located in their own dedicated building next to the Mist sauna units. Should you need to use the washroom during your session, simply follow the signs to the washrooms. Outdoor shoes are recommended.
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Each Mist Sauna Unit houses a private change room to start and end your session. Please be aware that your session incorporates time to get ready. Chimes will signal 15 minutes before the conclusion of your session. Kindly plan your time accordingly.
Policies and Other Questions
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We have a strict cancellation policy. General bookings can be canceled or rescheduled with the link provided in your confirmation email and receive a full refund up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled booking. If less than 48 hours notice is given, your payment is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Our Full Venue Rental bookings are non-refundable. However, if you’re hosting a retreat with Nectar, we do offer the option to reschedule within the same retreat, space permitting, up to 14 days before your Nectar retreat begins. If no suitable rescheduling options are available within this timeframe, the rental fee will be forfeited. -
Kindly refrain from bringing your personal hair products to use during your visit at Mist. In our commitment to stewarding a forest environment, we provide high-quality, non-toxic shampoo, conditioner, and body wash suitable for the premises. Introducing external products may not be conducive with our facilities’ requirements.
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Please email us your resumé and cover letter. We look forward to receiving it!
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Please send us an email.
You’ll hear from us within 48 hours.
Health and Safety
