When it comes to natural wellness in Torquay, Tim Altman is a name many of us on the Surf Coast recognise. Whether through his work with Surfcoast Wholefoods, his naturopathy practice, his breathwork classes, his involvement at the Surf Club, or out paddling on the ocean, many of us have crossed paths with him—yet we may not fully understand the depth of Tim’s care and dedication to the well-being of our community.
That all changes the moment you walk into The Esplanade Torquay, a sanctuary for natural wellness that feels more like stepping into Tim’s home. After over 25 years of refining his craft, Tim has finally created a space that brings together all the elements of his deeply restorative well-being practices. Positioned just a short walk from the healing waters of Cosy Corner, The Esplanade is designed to reconnect you with both your body and the natural world—a core part of Tim’s philosophy.
A Health Crisis that Sparked a Passion for Natural Wellness
Tim’s journey to creating a haven for natural wellness in Torquay didn’t happen overnight. It began in the late 1980s and early ’90s when he faced a debilitating case of chronic fatigue syndrome. As a high-performing athlete training for the Australian Olympic kayak team, while juggling full-time psychology studies and part-time work, the relentless pace took a toll on his body.
“Exhaustion became my new normal,” Tim recalls. Chronic fatigue syndrome was poorly understood at the time, and mainstream medicine offered little help. It wasn’t until a friend introduced Tim to Dr Vagif Soultanov—a Russian biochemist and natural medicine expert—that hope began to emerge.
Dr Soultanov’s holistic methods included sauna therapy, breathwork, herbal medicine, therapeutic fasting, and nutritional adjustments. Over six months, this integrative approach not only restored Tim’s health but gave him a vitality he hadn’t thought possible. “It was life-changing,” he says. “I realised that these methods couldn’t stay hidden—they needed to be shared.”
Turning a Personal Breakthrough into a Wellness Vision
The profound impact of his recovery ignited Tim’s commitment to learning and sharing natural healing methods. He completed a Bachelor of Health Science in Naturopathy and spent the next 25 years honing his practice, combining traditional and modern techniques to support others on their wellness journeys.
At The Esplanade Torquay, Tim’s vision has come to life. The space is more than a wellness centre; it’s a community hub where people can heal, connect, and grow. From sauna therapy and float therapy to yoga, massage, and breathwork, every service is designed to complement the others, creating a comprehensive approach to natural wellness in Torquay.
A Community Built Around Connection
For Tim, wellness is about more than just physical health—it’s about fostering connection. At The Esplanade, this sense of community is as important as the therapies themselves.
“True well-being flourishes when people come together,” Tim explains. Whether it’s individuals recovering from health challenges, athletes seeking recovery tools, or locals looking for a stress-free retreat, The Esplanade offers something for everyone.
The centre regularly hosts group classes and events, providing opportunities for like-minded individuals to connect and support one another. This emphasis on connection is what makes The Esplanade a standout destination for natural wellness on the Surf Coast.
A Legacy of Inspiration for Natural Wellness Torquay
Tim Altman’s journey—from the depths of chronic illness to the heights of vitality—is a testament to the power of holistic healing. Through The Esplanade, he is now offering others the chance to experience that transformation for themselves.
“Natural wellness is about reconnecting—with your body, with nature, and with others,” Tim says. At The Esplanade Torquay, that philosophy is at the heart of every experience.
Discover more about Tim’s vision and philosophy here.
Learn about the benefits of sauna and ice bath therapy from Tim’s Research Articles.
📞 Contact: 5261 3615
📍 Visit: 14A The Esplanade, Torquay, VIC
🌐 Learn More: www.theesplanadetorquay.com