Hot, cold, unwind: There’s a new sauna & ice bath studio opening in Toronto

Toronto’s College West neighbourhood will soon be home to the city’s newest sauna and ice bath studio, Alter.

The new wellness hub was founded by four entrepreneurial friends – Ujwal Shah, Aleya Velshi, Melissa Donato, and Tyler Ackerman with a goal “to enhance Torontonians’ everyday lives.”

According to Alter, its mission is “to make hot and cold exposure a more approachable and consistent practice by creating an atmosphere that is warm, welcoming, and community-oriented.”

Soon Torontonians will be able to take part in Drop-In sessions and experience the sauna, four-person ice baths, lounge spaces, and other amenities.

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There will be an expert Facilitator in the space to provide guidance if it is needed but all are welcome to experience these Drop Ins in their own way.

They will also have two 60-minute classes – Foundational for beginners and those familiar with the practice who want to get to the basics and Unwind for those who want to slow down and release physical, mental, and emotional tension.

“We’ve seen firsthand the importance of bathing culture all around the world, with our most recent experience taking place in Finland. We’re so excited to build a space that pays homage to these cultural traditions, and elevates the importance of this practice”, said Ujwal, Co-Founder & President of Alter.

“We want our space to feel like a second home, a place where people feel welcomed, and an experience that people can easily integrate into their routines.”

Alter will have a soft opening on December 13 for its Founding Members and their guests.

It’ll officially open its doors to the public on January 1st, 2024.

Alter College West Opening

When: Soft opening December 13th, 2023 for Founding Members // open to the public on January 1st, 2024
Where: College West, 860 College St., Toronto