The Ultimate Guide to a Hard Reset: My Day at Hammam Spa
Let's get real for a second. We've hit that point in the year—the pace is relentless, and the pressure is on.
My brain felt like it had way too many tabs open, I was running on fumes and my body was basically threatening a hard crash if I didn't schedule some downtime, ASAP.
When that happens, a face mask at home isn't going to cut it. You need a true environmental shift. You need a place that understands the art of the pause.
For me, that place is Hammam Spa by Céla - in the heart of North York, at Bayview Village. It's an iconic Toronto sanctuary for a reason. This month, they're celebrating their 20th anniversary, which is a HUGE dealio—it speaks to the vision of founder Celine Tadrissi, who created this space two decades ago.
To celebrate, they're offering 20% off all services and gift cards, so this is the perfect time to book in for a serious reset!
Now, let me give you the full breakdown.
First of all, what does 'Hammam' even mean?
Before we get into details about the treatment, let's talk about the name. A "Hammam" is a traditional Turkish bath. It’s a centuries-old ritual centered around steam, water, and communal relaxation for a deep, purifying cleanse. Hammam Spa has taken this ancient concept and given it a modern, luxurious update. It’s not just a spa; it's a social and restorative experience.
The Design & The Details
Walking into the 13,000-square-foot space is an experience in itself. The design, by Prototype Design Lab, is this blend of a modern Moroccan palace and serene Eastern sanctuary. You have these intricate, Arabian-inspired details and metalwork, but then the tea lounge and manicure / pedicure areas with wooden chairs feels more East Asian-inspired. It just works!
The first thing that hits you is the stunning spiral golden staircase. It’s this dramatic, sculptural welcome that immediately signals you’re leaving the outside world behind.
But the most genius detail is what’s missing: there are no clocks. Anywhere.
It’s a deliberate choice to help you surrender to the moment.
The attention to detail continues in the amenities—the rainfall showers are stocked with their own Céla skincare line, and they have hair tools ready for you (including Dyson Supersonic hair dryer.) It’s those thoughtful touches that make all the difference.
I was in my zone, filming with my DJI Osmo Pocket 3 instead of my phone, so I wasn't even thinking about the time. Next thing I knew, over four hours had vanished. Not lost, but beautifully, intentionally spent. And let me tell you, my soul needed every single one of those minutes.
The Main Event: The Céla Seed to Skin Ritual
Okay, let's get into the treatment. I opted for the Céla Seed to Skin Ritual - my skin was feeling dull and my body was tense. This is the breakdown:
The Cleanse: It starts with being enveloped in the most fragrant, soft bubbles 🫧. It’s SO gentle and immediately calming.
The Polish: This is the game-changer. They use a scrub made of finely milled seeds and Abyssinian oil to exfoliate your entire body. It’s not harsh at all, just incredibly effective at sloughing off dead skin.
The Release: While your body is soaking up all that goodness, they do a pressure point massage on your head, neck, and shoulders. I swear I felt a week's worth of tension just melt away right there.
The Hydration: The ritual ends with a full-body application of a rich, buttery cream. You leave feeling literally cocooned in moisture. My skin has never felt this soft.
A day or two post-spa, I found myself in a curious predicament: repeatedly nearly slipping on my own carpeted stairs.
After a brief investigation, the culprit was revealed. My feet were, for lack of a better word, too soft. Dangerously smooth, even...
I’ve had pedicures and foot masks that promise results, but this was next-level—a testament to the efficacy of the ritual. The verdict is in: the treatment works. Perhaps a little too well. (IYKYK)
The Wind-Down: Tea & Steam
The experience doesn't end on the table. Afterwards, you’re guided to the tea lounge for warm tea, baklava, and Turkish delight. Don’t skip this part. It’s essential for gently re-entering the world ;).
I heard a lady nearby ordering glass of prosecco while on her laptop—a true power move. It’s clear the tea room is a destination in itself, and I've already made a mental note to return and discover what other secrets are on its menu.
My final stop were their sauna (with electric heater) and signature co-ed eucalyptus steam room.
It’s what makes this place so unique. The steam is intense in the best way, and it feels like you're sweating out every last bit of stress. They have a fridge with cold towels to help cool you down if needed.
The Verdict
This wasn't just a spa day; it was a full-circle, restorative experience. If you’re feeling burnt out, uninspired, or just disconnected, this is your sign. Save this post as your guide to the ultimate reset. Trust me, you NEED this.
With Love & Style,
Betty Lam
Fall Wellness 2025, Toronto Spa Guide, Creative Burnout, Self-Care Blueprint, Celine Tadrissi, Quiet Luxury, Céla Skincare, Urban Sanctuary, What is a Hammam, Co-ed Steam Room, Spa Anniversary Deals, Betty Lam Aesthetic.
Hammam Spa By Céla
Bayview Village
2901 Bayview Ave, Unit 132
North York, ON