Geothermal water is heated naturally beneath the earth's surface. Often in Iceland, as in other places, it rises naturally to the surface, bringing with it a high mineral content. It's then distributed and used for heating homes, schools, greenhouses and pools. There are two tectonic plates meeting below the surface of Iceland; the North American and Eurasian plates have a turbulent meeting point. That geological friction creates heat which then results in an abundance of geothermally-heated water. The earth heats the water all by itself.
Soaking in these waters is good for the mind, body and soul.
Our bodies are covered in a protective shield that's also porous. Skin absorbs what surrounds it, the good and the bad. The waters of this Lagoon contain minerals that can detoxify and can help remedy skin ailments. So soaking can be beneficial to your skin. Coupled with the signature Body Scrub your skin will feel fresh, clean, and be aglow. Here are the 7 steps to the Ritual:
Step 1: Slow down, relax in the lagoon
Enter through the cave-like entrance to the lagoon. Float through a breathtaking canyon and take in a view toward Mount Keilir. To the other side, the rhythmic theatre of the ocean sets your breath free. Step 1 is about the journey from the changing room out towards the infinity edge. It's gently entering a state of serenity and calm where you feel relaxed and open for what is to come.
Step 2: Cool down in the cold plunge
Step 2 is deeply traditional for Icelanders - this is where one undergoes cold therapy. Known to stimulate ones immune system, decrease blood flow and tighten skin's pores, the cold plunge is a shock to the system. It has also been proven to boost one's happiness. 10 seconds is the recommended amount of time to wake up your senses, with 30 being the max if you can stand it.
Step 3: Relax with a stunning view in the sauna
After a cold awakening, visit the sauna for 5 to 10 minutes. Allow the heat to open your pores, remove toxins and cleanse your skin. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views while the heat works its magic. With an enormous window with unobstructed ocean views, this is the most amazing sauna in Iceland. Take 10 minutes here to let the heat work its magic and heighten feelings of wellbeing. Gentle acoustics echo the sound of the ocean and create a sense of calm.
Step 4: Refresh in a cold fog-mist
Next, balance the heat from the sauna by stepping slowly through the cold fog-mist space. Take a deep breath here and refresh your senses. The cold mist rejuvenates the skin and helps prepare you for what is about to come next.
Step 5: The Sky Body Scrub
It’s time for re-invigoration. By applying a signature body scrub, your skin will be exfoliated and glowing. Our partner has developed their own unique sea salt scrub to give your skin a soft healthy feeling. With its light and comforting spring-like scent, it'll work wonders.
Step 6: Steam room
With your skin tingling from the body scrub, steam will once more open your skin's pores . Here, The Ritual's key therapeutic elements are absorbed and the hydrating benefits of the body scrub maximized.
Step 7: Shower and relax in the lagoon
Finally, rinse off the scrub in the shower. Then, step back into the warm geothermal lagoon. Lean back, close your eyes, breathe deeply, feel the results and enjoy the moment. Let all the benefits of this unique journey sink in. You'll feel every single muscle in your body relaxed, rejuvenated and energized. When you're ready, head to the Lagoon Bar for a refreshment.
These seven steps, taken in sequence and at a slow pace, can lead to deep relaxation and wellbeing. As Icelanders have done for centuries, discover the power of tradition and be inspired by these incredible surroundings.
