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Hot-spring water is one of Iceland's primary natural resources. It is used for space heating, to produce electricity and is utilized in various industries, including greenhouse farming. Icelanders were quick to realize the medicinal benefits of thermal water, which is partly responsible for their longevity and good health. One of the main reasons for this longevity is because Icelanders regularly visit the pools to improve their overall well-being. Swimming in thermal water under a bare sky while breathing in clean, fresh air is one of the best exercises available anywhere. This is particularly true for asthma and heart patients. And since swimming strengthens the body and makes all physical movements much easier, it is especially suitable for older people, children and teenagers. Most important, however, is the delightful feeling one gets from moving and stretching in a pool that is kept at a constant temperature of 29°C (84°F). Surveys show that 94% of foreigners who visit the thermal baths and pools in Reykjavík said that the experience had a positive effect on their health and well-being.
Hot Pots
One of the most popular features of Reykjavík's thermal baths and pools are the hot pots, small pools of water is diverse sizes and shapes with water temperatures ranging from 37°C-42°C (98°F-111°F). Some pots are equipped with Jacuzzis and water messages. Guests go from pot to pot enjoying the various temperatures, often cooling themselves in between either in cool water or simply in the cool air (regardless of season). There is nothing like relaxing in a hot pot to revitalize the body at the end of the day, and these trips to the baths and pools are particularly satisfying for those who suffer from stress or arthritis.
Steam Baths
The most popular addi-tion to the thermal baths and pools in Reykjavík are the steam baths. By pumping thermal water at high pressure through nozzles with hair-fine holes, steam saturated with minute droplets of water is created. This heat is remarkably comfortable, without being sweltry. The steam heats the body, while cleansing the skin and respiratory passages. These steam baths are also particularly good for sufferers of arthritis and lung diseases. In general, this steam has a relaxing effect on both body and soul.
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