Nestled in the raw, untouched beauty of North Iceland, our Iceland women’s wellness retreat promised more than just an escape—it offered a chance for an inner journey and self care. Over nine days, we relaxed our nervous system, immersed ourselves in nature’s healing waters, explored the mystical, and connected deeply with ourselves and one another. Here’s a glimpse into the transformative experiences of our time together.
Join Us March 14-22, 2025 for Iceland Women’s Hot Springs & Mindfulness Tour
Day 1: A Warm Welcome
Our journey began with arrivals and introductions, setting the stage for the days ahead. After settling in, we gathered for a group dinner where each participant received a custom journal and their very own bag of runes with a booklet explaining the meaning of each rune to be used throughout the tour.
I introduced the journal as if it were a spell book—a sacred space for capturing day-to-day experiences, recipes, dreams, and moments of synchronicity. I encouraged them to make it their own: get it dirty, bend the pages, and tuck treasures into its spine.
Day 2: Trust, Connection, and a First Cold Dip
On our first full day, Svava Brooks Svanhildardóttir guided us in creating shared values, fostering trust within our group. Through reflective exercises, like drawing cards with affirmations, we opened up. Mine read, “One day she opened her hands and received.” The message resonated deeply, reminding me to embrace abundance rather than focus on scarcity.
One participant described this day as group dynamics going from day 1 to day 4 in two hours. Svava does an amazing job of creating safe spaces for people to open up and connect with others.
Svava’s studio in Reykjavik
In the afternoon, we visited a seaside nature spa hugged by fjords. The brackish geothermal pools soothed our bodies, while a cold-water immersion session, guided by mindful breathing techniques, challenged us to step outside our comfort zones. By day’s end, we felt invigorated, relaxed and more connected—to ourselves, each other, and the elements.
The spa has different hot pools mixed with geothermal and seawater. Just steps away is the inviting Atlantic Ocean.
Day 3: Troll Legends and Dancing Lights
Our first scheduled activity this day was a walk at a waterfall that’s home to a lady Troll named Kola. At the top of the waterfall, looking into the canyon, Ingibjörg G. Guðjónsdóttir led some grounding and breathing exercise. The day before, participants chose rocks and were given the homework to put a positive thought or wish into the stone. At the waterfall we each tossed our rocks into the river, offering it our positive energy and intensions. Rivers, like the universal collective are made up of many drops of water forming powerful energy systems. Studies have shown that water has a memory and is able to carry our prayers. The river will run out into the Arctic Ocean with our positive energy and visions for a better world.
Kóla’s canyon where we tossed rocks with our positive intentions into the glacial meltwater that will flow to the sea.
Everyday we find hot water to soak in. Today we went to a public pool in Blunduös. They have an infrared sauna, too. The public pools are heated outdoor pools and a fun way to get to be part of the culture. Then we went to a fortune teller who told us stories about a witch who was born in the area in the 1800. Later, using runes, she told people their fortune.
The evening was crazy fun!! Our dinner at a restaurant turned into our own private event of singing, dancing, and even a group karaoke version of Bohemian Rhapsody!! Then the northern lights danced, REALLY danced across the sky. With our naked eyes we watched neon green and some violet and white hues zig zag, swim, and expand across the sky over the Arctic Ocean.
Day 4: Heart Connections by the Arctic Ocean
On a black sand beach, the rhythm of crashing waves set the tone for a profound morning exercise. Partnered, we placed our hands on one another’s hearts, exchanged silent love, and connected deeply. It was an emotional, grounding moment that exemplified the retreat’s essence—mindfulness, vulnerability, and connection.
Heart energy exercise on a black sand beach.
In the afternoon, we visited Hofsós’s public pool with an infinity pool that looks over the fjord. That evening, runes took center stage as we learned their history and practiced using them to seek guidance, further deepening our journey into Icelandic mysticism.
Infinity pool and a fjord. It was cloudy this day. Across the water are white mountains.
Day 5: Floating into Harmony and Craft Beer Cheer
The morning unfolded with a float therapy session in one of Iceland’s first public pools. Snowflakes fell softly as we floated in mineral-rich water, guided by gentle hands and meditative energy. The combination of weightlessness and warmth unlocked profound relaxation, leaving us blissful and renewed.
Here, Inga led us through a transformative float therapy session.
The process was simple yet profound. Floating on warm, mineral-rich water, supported by the earth’s energy, participants drifted into a deeply meditative and harmonious state. As the water cradled them and Inga’s gentle touch provided light massage, the interplay of weightlessness and soothing sensations worked its magic—melting away stress, easing physical tension, and creating a profound sense of inner peace.
Snowflakes fell softly from the gray sky, dusting cheeks and hair, making the experience feel otherworldly.
Float therapy. The guest has leg and head floats and a blanket for warm. The eye mask reduces stimulus and improves relaxation.
In the afternoon, we walked the picturesque village of Siglufjörður to a local brewery for a tour. We learned about the brewing process and sampled different beers. Laughter filled the room as the group shared stories, toasted to new friendships, and maybe indulged in a bit too much beer (if that’s even possible).
Day 6: A Brave Dip into the Arctic
For many, stepping into the Arctic Ocean is a mental mountain to climb. Yet, through days of support and preparation, every participant took the plunge—whether wading, dipping, or fully immersing themselves. This day marked a milestone for many participants as they braved the Arctic Ocean. Supported by Inga’s encouragement and the group’s energy, each woman found her strength, stepping into the icy waters with a mix of trepidation and triumph.
Soaking in the geothermal hot tubs by the sea to get nice and hot before going into the Arctic Ocean.
Breathing deeply and meditation with the support of Inga before gentle immersing into the Arctic Ocean.
Day 7: Sound Baths and Abundance
Our morning took us to Sólveig’s yurt, a sacred space steeped in Icelandic folklore. Sage cleansed our energy as we entered a sanctuary filled with blankets, spiritual relics, and a palpable sense of peace. During a sound bath, the tones of gongs and singing bowls vibrated through our bodies, aligning us with a deeper meditative state.
Sound bathing in a yurt in a sacred space. Notice the photo on the left? This is an elf named Móra who lives here.
Drawing a card from the Goddess deck, I received Abundantia, the goddess of abundance, reaffirming the message I’d encountered on Day 1: to open my hands and receive. This synchronicity touched my heart, a gentle nudge from the universe to trust the process.
The day’s magic continued at a beer spa. Soaking in nutrient-rich beer baths while sipping fresh brews brought relaxation and lighthearted fun, a perfect balance to the morning’s introspection.
Soaking in hops at the beer spa.
Spectacular northern lights.
Day 8: The Atlantic’s Invigorating Embrace
Our final full day began with another geothermal pool and a chilly Atlantic swim. The brisk water awakened our senses, proving that sometimes the hardest steps lead to the most invigorating rewards.
The evening’s discussion on the law of attraction invited reflection: What prayers are you living today? It was a poignant reminder of gratitude, manifestation, and the shared dreams we carry forward.
Day 9: Closing the Circle
On our last morning, we reunited with Svava to reflect on our journey. The circle closed as we shared heartfelt words about the retreat’s impact—how each woman’s experience was as unique as her, yet intertwined with the collective spirit of our group.
As we journeyed back to Reykjavik, the Icelandic landscape bid us farewell with snowy mountains, golden fields, and azure skies. Even a dance party with some fellow travelers added a final spark of joy to the adventure.
The Magic of Iceland Awaits You
This retreat was a celebration of connection—to nature, to ourselves, and to each other. From hot springs to cold dips, runes to northern lights, Iceland’s enchanting landscapes nurtured our minds, bodies, and spirits.
If you’re ready to dream big, rest your nervous system, and embrace the magic of Iceland, join us for an experience that promises transformation, healing, and the joy of discovery.
Join us over the Spring Equinox Iceland Women’s Wellness Retreat March 14-22, 2025
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