The logo for Zen Den Wellness Spa in Lakeside is an Enso circle, a symbol in Japanese Zen Buddhism that signifies the journey to enlightenment. For spa owner Annie Dillard it also represents the journey of health and selfcare. 

“This is a space that is really curated for people to feel relaxed,” Dillard said. “Self-care is so important in our busy and stressful world.” 

Dillard first opened Zen Den in 2021 in a smaller space above the current location at 306 Stoner Loop. Her husband, Will, owns the next door flooring shop, Northern Lights Design. Before running the spa full time, Dillard was an intensive care unit nurse for 16 years.  

She’s always been passionate about the holistic side of health throughout her years working in medicine. Also, a certified massage therapist, Dillard constantly looks for calming treatment options to add to the spa that are unique and contribute to a serene experience.  

“There’s obviously a place for Western medicine, but I’ve just always liked the natural side of things and doing preventative care,” she said. “It’s important for self-care.” 

Originally from Michigan, Dillard moved to the Flathead Valley in 2016 to work as a nurse at Logan Health. She left nursing last summer expanding her then massage therapy business into the spa it is today moving into the new space in October. 

Upon entering the space has a calming effect. A handmade piece of art by Dillard, featuring moss and driftwood, hangs in the entryway, a mix of herbal smells gently surrounds each room. Dim lights and comfortable spaces help achieve the spa experience. 

Zen Den Wellness boasts multiple massagists, a sauna and cold plunge, a red-light therapy bed and more. It is a “fusion” between a spa and a wellness center, Dillard said, offering wellness treatments in the calm, serene vibe of a spa.  

Red-light therapy uses specific light wavelengths that encourage recovery reducing both inflammation and pain. It can improve strength, increase energy, faster recovery time and less fatigue, according to the spa.  

Mostly recently, Zen Den added a new treatment to list of services: head spa treatments, a concept that continues to pop up across the country.  

A head spa focuses on the health of the scalp, what Dillard referred to as a “facial for your head.” It combines traditional scalp massage techniques, modern hair treatments and a halo waterfall to improve scalp and hair health.  

The spa began offering the treatments on March 1 and have almost booked out for the whole month. Starting at $110, the treatment includes a scalp massage using hands and tools, exfoliating shampoo, a hair mask and more.  

Other packages, ranging from $140 to $175, include additional treatments including a hand and foot massage or a facial. 

For more information, visit zendenwellnessspa.com.  

Reporter Kate Heston may be reached at 758-4459 or kheston@dailyinterlake.com. 

    Zen Den Wellness Spa in Lakeside, Montana. (Kate Heston/Daily Inter Lake)
  

    The head spa halo at Zen Den Wellness Spa in Lakeside. (Photo provided)