A Quebec woman rushed to a hospital after participating in an intense sweating detoxification program has died, officials say. The woman, 35, died Friday afternoon in the hospital where she and another woman were taken after being found unconscious at a detoxification spa, the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. reported.
The other woman regained consciousness in the ambulance and was listed in stable condition.
"The treatments consisted of a process of sweating by being all wrapped in plastic with mud, and also with blankets," Sgt. Eloise Cossette said.
The women were also enclosed in cardboard boxes.
The detoxification program, which takes place in a rented farmhouse in Durham, lasts for several hours without drinking any water. At least 10 people were taking part in the treatment at the time.
Police are investigating the farmhouse. The woman renting it offers an introduction to the practice of Reiki, developed by a Japanese Buddhist in the 1920s.
Neighbors have previously filed complaints against the farmhouse, saying they heard loud screaming on the property.
