First Visit

A person peacefully floats on their back in calm, clear water under a bright sky, conveying a sense of tranquility and solitude.

What to expect

Inspired by thermal traditions and supported by modern science, our experiences combine heat, cold, and rest in immersive and powerful rituals.

Wellness as a social experience

RECESS is experienced together. Even solo, you will never be alone. You will share the thermotherapy circuit—heat, cold, rest, repetition—alongside other humans who have also come to slow down, recover, and reconnect. Calm conversations are welcome.

A ritual rooted in urban life

RECESS fits into your daily life. Before work, between meetings, or after a workout — here, well-being is not a rare break. It’s a habit. Accessible, flexible, and aligned with your lifestyle.

Functionality over fluff

Here, nothing is left to chance. Every element — from the sauna to the ice bath, including visual art and music — is rooted in science, tradition, and intention. Everything is designed to support your nervous system, enhance your resilience, and clarify your mind.

Book your first session

How to
prepare for arrival?

We recommend arriving 10 to 15 minutes before the start of your session, to take the time to ground yourself, hydrate, and enter the experience calmly.

Late arrivals are not allowed, out of respect for the pace and presence of others.

What to bring?

swimsuit (mandatory)

reusable water bottle

good energy & an open mind

Towels, filtered water, and tea are provided on site.

We provide towels, filtered water, and tea are offered on-site

Tips Before

Your First Visit

It’s a space to slow down, listen to yourself, and come back to yourself. Let your body guide you.

Hydration
Stay hydrated well
throughout the day (electrolytes recommended)
Nutrition
Have a nourishing and light snack (avoid arriving on an empty stomach).
Intuition
Listen to your body —
it's about connection, not performance.
Rhythm
Take a break between
the cycles, with water
or tea.
Rest
Center yourself if necessary — our resting areas are made for that.
Security
If you feel dizzy, take a moment to sit down, breathe, and recover.
Consumption
Avoid alcohol and drugs — explore with clarity and awareness.

A person is partially submerged underwater, with sunlight creating rippling patterns on the water's surface and softly illuminating their face from above.

Hydration

Stay hydrated well

throughout the day (electrolytes recommended)

Nutrition

Have a nourishing and light snack (avoid arriving on an empty stomach).

Intuition

Listen to your body —

it's about connection, not performance.

Rhythm

Take a break between

the cycles, with water

or tea.

Rest

Center yourself if necessary — our resting areas are made for that.

Security

If you feel dizzy, take a moment to sit down, breathe, and recover.

Consumption

Avoid alcohol and drugs — explore with clarity and awareness.

A detailed map illustration of a city layout highlights various neighborhoods such as Ville-Marie and Griffintown, alongside visible road networks and geographic landmarks, presented in a monochromatic blue color scheme with the word "RECESS" prominently displayed at the center.

How to find us

217 Young Street
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
H3C 2E9

Located in the heart of Griffintown, just steps away from the Lachine Canal.

Whether you're coming by foot, bike, or car, plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to settle in and start your session smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I come alone?

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

Is it guided or autonomous?

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

How long does a session last?

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, please consult your healthcare professional before participating.

Is there a quiet area?

Some guided sessions are in silence.

What session do you recommend for a first time?

Infusion or Free Flow.

What are the rules of courtesy in the space?

- Always sit on a towel in the sauna (from butt to feet). - Always rinse off before entering a cold bath. - Respectful conversations are encouraged in the sauna, the relaxation area, and the changing rooms. Note that this space is without *flirting.* - Changing clothes must be done in complete privacy. Full nudity is not allowed.

How to use the space?

- In a guided session, simply follow your guide — breathe, listen to your body, and be present. - In Free Flow, here’s what we recommend: - Start with 15 to 20 minutes in the sauna to awaken the body and calm the mind. Follow it with a quick cold bath — 30 seconds is enough, or 1 to 3 minutes depending on your comfort — to activate your system and reset. Finish with 5 to 15 minutes in the relaxation area, allowing your body to naturally warm up while you relax and reconnect. Repeat if you wish. - There is no unique way to explore contrast therapy — listen to your body. Whether you start or finish with the cold, follow what feels right for you.

What do we find inside?

A large sauna (49 places), a cold bath area, large showers, a relaxation area, and a water/tea area.

Can I come alone?

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

Is it guided or autonomous?

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

How long does a session last?

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, please consult your healthcare professional before participating.

Is there a quiet area?

Some guided sessions are in silence.

What session do you recommend for a first time?

Infusion or Free Flow.

What are the rules of courtesy in the space?

Always sit on a towel in the sauna (from buttocks to feet). Always rinse off before entering a cold bath. Respectful conversations are encouraged in the sauna, relaxation area, and changing rooms. Please note that this space is without *flirting.* Changing clothes should be done in complete privacy. Full nudity is not permitted.

How to use the space?

In a guided session, simply follow your guide — breathe, listen to your body, and be present. In Free Flow, here’s what we recommend: - Start with 15 to 20 minutes in the sauna to awaken the body and calm the mind. Follow up with a quick cold bath — 30 seconds is enough, or 1 to 3 minutes depending on your comfort — to activate your system and reset. Finish with 5 to 15 minutes in the resting area, allowing your body to warm up naturally while you relax and reconnect. Repeat if you wish. There is no single way to explore contrast therapy — listen to your body. Whether you start or end with the cold, follow what feels right.

What do we find inside?

A large sauna (49 places), a cold bath area, large showers, a relaxation area, and a water/tea area.

Underwater photography capturing three people submerged in clear blue water, surrounded by swirling bubbles and creating a dynamic movement.

Let's break the ice!
Join our community

Whether you’re here to build a new ritual or just taking your first plunge, RECESS is more than a place—it’s a community. Join us and stay in the loop for upcoming events, exclusive sessions, and stories from inside the steam.