I Escaped to an Ontario Wellness Retreat to See If Nature Could Really Reduce My Stress

By Rosalind Stefanac

For years, we’ve been told to eat better, exercise more and get enough sleep. But now more and more healthcare experts are adding another prescription to the list: more time in nature.

That’s what brought me to Dimensions, a nature-focused wellness retreat in Ontario, tucked among some 40 acres of forest on the shores of Maple Lake in the Algonquin Highlands. Rather than offering wellness trends or quick fixes, Dimensions combines evidence-informed therapies with the restorative power of nature. Its programming blends guided mindfulness, movement, spa therapies, nutrition and time outdoors—an approach rooted in growing research that shows spending time in natural environments can help reduce stress, improve sleep and mental health, and support overall well-being.

I expected beautiful scenery and a chance to unwind. What I didn’t anticipate was how intentionally slowing down—through long forest walks, lake paddles, restorative therapies and delicious meals—quieted my mind in a way I hadn’t experienced in years. By the end of my stay, I wasn’t just feeling more relaxed, I found myself planning out how I would better incorporate more outdoor time in my days back in Toronto.

A different kind of wellness retreat

Scattered throughout the forest, the retreat’s 17 private cabin suites offer plenty of solitude while still being just a short walk from the main lodge. From the moment I stepped into mine, it was clear this wasn’t a typical spa getaway. With its warm wood finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows and private deck overlooking the lake, it felt less like a hotel room and more like a secluded sanctuary. Every design element seemed intended to draw my attention back outdoors, whether I was sipping kombucha by the window seat, soaking in the tub or simply watching the trees sway in the breeze. My fridge was stocked with healthy beverages, and in the main lodge guests were welcome to help themselves to wholesome snacks throughout the day (all gluten- and refined-sugar free), making healthy choices feel effortless.

The property is dog friendly too, and seeing guests exploring the trails with their four-legged companions only added to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

The days can be as structured—or as unstructured—as you like. Wellness programs range from two-day getaways to immersive stays of 10 days or more, focused on nervous system regulation and mental wellbeing using evidence-based therapies, outdoor adventures and restorative downtime.

I tried an early morning cold plunge and sauna, took an outdoor yoga class at sunset and joined a guided forest bathing session, where we were encouraged to notice the fragrance of the woods, listen to the wind and feel the forest ground beneath our feet. As someone who usually power walks with a destination in mind, simply wandering without an agenda felt surprisingly foreign—and incredibly calming.

I went kayaking at dusk and enjoyed it so much I woke up early the next day and revelled in the morning mist and stillness of the lake. The only sounds were the rhythmic dip of paddles and birds calling overhead and I could have stayed out there for hours.

An unexpected moment of stillness

One of the experiences that surprised me most was inside a canvas tent where I took part in a one-hour sound bath led by certified sound therapy practitioner Kayla Rowden.

Held inside a tranquil geodesic ceremony dome tucked into the forest, the session began with the gentle tones of crystal singing bowls before layers of sound and vibration gradually filled the space. My mind, initially racing, eventually grew quiet, allowing the sounds to guide me into a state of deep relaxation. By the time it ended, I’d completely forgotten where I was and felt like I’d slept a full night.

In my cabin I also slept better than I had in months. Perhaps it was the fresh air, or the fact I had no TV screens to distract me. While technology isn’t banned at Dimensions, no one seemed to be on their phones and I quickly followed suit.

Another surprise was the food. Wellness retreats sometimes conjure images of tiny portions and meals that feel more virtuous than satisfying. But here the kitchen team beautifully showcased whole, minimally processed ingredients prepared with creativity and plenty of flavour. Lunch featured a vibrant make-your-own poke bowl station piled high with colourful vegetables, grains and proteins. Dinner was beautifully prepared Wagyu culotte paired with seasonal asparagus, while crispy onion pakoras proved that comfort food can still fit within a thoughtfully prepared menu.

Every single meal demonstrated how fresh, wholesome ingredients could become something both nourishing and genuinely delicious. Having all my meals around a communal table with other guests added another unexpected twist to the experience—a genuine sense of connection with people who, like me, had come seeking a chance to slow down.

And no, my weekend at Dimensions didn’t magically erase all my stress. My inbox was still full, my deadlines were still waiting and my sons would soon be asking what’s for dinner. But I came home with a renewed appreciation for the restorative power of nature—and for a place that makes it remarkably easy to reconnect with it.

Find more information about Dimensions and its various retreat options at https://dimensionsretreats.com/.