Take a Breath

For Indigenous Peoples in Canada, relaxation and wellness are often rooted in a deep relationship with the land, air and water. It’s a connection that promotes peace through meaningful encounters with the natural world. With one of these seven operators, a deeper sense of wellbeing is just a reservation away.

BY DIANE SELKIRK

Immerse yourself in Haida culture with a getaway to Haida House at Tllaal, British Columbia. Set between the banks of the Tlell River and the eastern beaches of Graham Island, a stay here will give you incomparable access to windswept beaches, untouched sand dunes, silent forests and a serene river. Be sure to take one of Haida House’s cultural excursions before wrapping up each day with a delicious dinner followed by a peaceful night in the lodge or one of the new oceanfront cabins. [haidahouse.com]

Ocean House at Tlaga Gawtlaas Haida House at Tllaal

Connect further with Haida culture by choosing a package that includes nights at Ocean House at Tlaga Gawtlaas. Located in a secluded section of Naikoon Provincial Park near Gaw Tlagee Old Massett, you’ll spend your days exploring important heritage sites, learning traditional skills or hiking stretches of beach. Visit the spa for a healing treatment using locally-made, all-natural products. After an incredible dinner, spend some time in the lounge where you may get to hear the mesmerizing drumming and song of a Haida singer. [oceanhouse.ca]

Soaking away your troubles is something that literally happens at Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort in British Columbia’s Kootenay region. After you’ve settled into a room with gorgeous lake or forest views, slip into a robe and take the short walk to the hot springs. The highlight is a soak in the sacred Spirit Water of the Ktunaxa People in the natural cave. Softly lit, the flowstone and stalactites shimmer magically in the steam. Don’t miss dining on Indigenous-inspired regional cuisine at Ktunaxa Grill—one of the best-regarded restaurants in the area. [ainsworthhotsprings.com]

Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort

Michela Carriere, Aski Holistic Adventures

Healing and learning are the focus of a stay at ShaMaSha, a retreat located in the seaside village of George’s Brook, Newfoundland. Founder Daphne March says the goal of a stay is to enhance your connection with others and the land through healthy eating, meditation, yoga, hiking, and traditional Mi’kmaq teachings and practices. Your day may start with a sunrise meditation and include a walk on the picturesque hills above Smith Sound. It continues with nurturing meals, and a peaceful overnight stay. [shamasha.ca]

Bear River First Nation in Digby County, Nova Scotia is the proud new owner of Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa. The community says the historic resort, which was once an important place for traditional practices, is going to evolve into a destination resort that captures the spirit of Mi’kmaw culture. Guests can play the 18-hole golf course, swim in the heated pool, relax in the spa or explore the extensive grounds while enjoying the views of the Annapolis Basin. [digbypines.ca]

PHOTOS: AINSWORTH HOT SPRINGS (POOL), STÉPHANE GROLEAU (RIGHT PAGE), ASKI HOLISTIC ADVENTURES (WOMAN) Hôtel‑Musée Premières Nations

Discover the warm welcome of the Huron-Wendat reserve of Wendake with a stay at Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations. Set in a wooded area, the hotel is serene and inviting. Enjoy sublime dining at La Traite, which offers Indigenous-inspired cuisine including home-smoked fish and the flavours of juniper, birch syrup and cedar jelly. Don’t miss a visit to the spa where treatments include time in the outdoor Nordic baths. Sleep well after finishing your evening with traditional stories inside the longhouse. [hotelpremieresnations.ca]

Daphne March, Board of Directors, NLITA

Daphne March is a strong Mi’ kmaq woman from Gillams, NL. A mother of two children, Stephen and Rebecca, she owns and operates four-star accommodations and specializes in hospitality and wellness. She is also the founder of the ShaMaSha Project, (currently under development) which is an art and healing retreat. Drawing from her roots, Daphne organizes culinary and outdoor experiences to help her guest reconnect with nature. As a member of the board of directors of NLITA, Daphne has contributed to the development of a five-year strategy to preserve, support, and promote indigenous culture as a tourism asset for the province.

Fall asleep in a teepee in the Northern Saskatchewan wilderness with Aski Holistic Adventures. Discover the healing powers of nature with a customized outdoor adventure led by Cree-Métis guide, Michela Carriere. Whether you’re interested in discovering local medicines and plants, canoeing, forest bathing or learning about the birds, plants and animals of the river delta, these year-round experiences draw on Indigenous knowledge and provide a deeper connection to the land. [askiholisticadventures.com]