Jonathan Toews Undergoes Ayurvedic Treatment Amid Health Challenges

Former captain Jonathan Toews revealed on Instagram that he recently spent five weeks in India undergoing a traditional Ayurvedic detox known as Panchakarma. Toews, who announced in August 2023 his decision to step away from hockey to address health concerns, provided an update on his condition, stating, «I’ve had many ups and downs, brief moments of hope working with a whole bunch of different doctors and modalities, followed by doubting if things would ever improve.»

During the 2022-2023 NHL season, Toews played 53 games, scoring 15 goals and registering 16 assists, as he struggled with the effects of long COVID and chronic immune response syndrome. These health issues have significantly affected his energy levels and overall well-being, prompting his exploration of alternative healing methods.

Toews described Ayurveda as a comprehensive healing science from India that has been practiced for over 5,000 years. «Ayurveda translates to ‘Knowledge of Life,’ and this system views our bodies as delicate ecosystems, influenced by everything we consume as far as energy, information, thoughts, feelings, and food,» Toews explained. The Panchakarma treatment he underwent is designed to cleanse the body and eliminate deep-seated toxins.

Since stepping away from professional hockey, Toews has sought various treatments to manage his inflammatory and immune system issues. «It’s been almost five years of searching for a way to heal,» he said. «The wisdom of Ayurveda has taught me that everything I experience, I am responsible for.»

Although Toews made a few public appearances over the summer, including an autograph session in Chicago and attending the Burning Man festival, he has largely remained out of the spotlight. At 36, the Winnipeg native concluded his last playing season in the NHL while in the final year of an eight-year, $84 million contract with the Chicago Blackhawks. General Manager Kyle Davidson confirmed that Toews would not be re-signed for the following season.

Throughout his career, Toews played exclusively with the Blackhawks after being selected third overall in the 2006 NHL Draft. He has achieved significant career milestones, including winning three Stanley Cups (2010, 2013, and 2015) and earning the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2010 and the Frank Selke Trophy in 2013. In total, Toews has recorded 372 goals and 511 assists in 1,067 games. Despite his health struggles, his contributions to the team and the sport remain noteworthy.