Merriam-Webster defines the word “hygge” (pronounced “hoo-gah”) as a cozy quality that makes a person feel content and comfortable. Although you may be unfamiliar with the Danish term, you’ve most likely experienced the feeling that comes with it. If you’ve ever wrapped yourself up in your favourite blanket, with a good book and a warm cup of tea on a rainy […]

In the hustle and bustle of the routine, setting time aside for yourself can be quite a task. When you finally schedule some self-care, maximizing its benefits is primordial. A one-hour massage, with a little extra preparation, can go an even longer way. Here are some tips to enhance your next massage experience, whether it’s your first time or your […]

Two incredibly similar terms, albeit with different meanings: the thermal cycle and the thermal experience, here’s how to differentiate them:     The Common Denominator thermal adjective  ther· mal | \ ˈthər-məl  a: of, relating to, or caused by heat b: being or involving a state of matter dependent upon temperature  c: having low energies of the order of those due […]

Some say it takes 21 days to create a habit while others claim it’s closer to two months. No matter how long it takes to change your routine, one thing is certain: it starts with trying.     Introducing Meditation Meditation has been around for quite some time. Evidence of the practice has been documented as early as 5,000 to 3,500 […]

Every year, without fail, Chelsea transforms itself into a winter wonderland. From skiing to skating, staycations and spa days, all the way to cozy nights in, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, whether your favourite season has just arrived, or you’ll bid your time until spring, there’s sure to be some wintertime entertainment in and around Chelsea that’s perfect […]

It’s that time of the year again! The clock is ticking, and we could all use a little bit of inspiration and a couple more gift ideas. This year, we’ve reached out to our very own artisans for suggestions. Our 2022 Local Gift Guide is filled to the brim with presents for everyone on your list, courtesy of Nordik’s team.  […]

The Nordik’s baked brie is a winter menu staple at the spa. Warm and comforting, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a spa day. With the holiday spirit in mind, Chef David Arseneau shares his recipe with us so we can bring a bit of the spa home. Ideal for entertaining, this cozy baked brie is sure to feature on your […]

As the days get shorter, the temperature colder and leaves brighter, we must say farewell to our summertime plans and embrace all that autumn has to offer. Read on to discover our favourite activities to do in the fall in and around Chelsea.     Hike in the colourful forest of Gatineau Park.    View this post on Instagram A post shared […]

Choosing Ocean Wise recommended seafood relieves pressure on overfished species and supports sustainable systems that limit bycatch and habitat damage. Collectively, our choices can ensure the health of our oceans, lakes, and rivers for generations to come.  As a proud partner of the Ocean Wise Seafood program, Groupe Nordik—and Nordik Spa-Nature—are thrilled to be part of the solution by offering […]

Over 2000 years ago, in Nordic lands, thermotherapy was already common practice. Known for its physical and psychological benefits, thermotherapy continues to stand the test of time. Thermotherapy refers to a medical technique —”therapy”—that uses temperature variations—”thermo”. Also known as the thermal cycle, thermotherapy consists of alternating between hot—usually in a sauna—and cold, followed by a period of rest. Repeating […]

Sometimes, leaving your worries behind can prove difficult. When the weight of the routine becomes overwhelming, take a step back and breathe. The easiest and most effective way to ease tensions and calm the voice within is as easy as breathing.   Mindful breathing brings balance to the mind and body. Best of all, you can do it any time, any […]

The skin we’re in is as ever-changing as we are. Every day, the regenerative cycle starts all over again. Unlike reptiles who shed all at once, our natural shedding process—called desquamation—is constantly happening. Our bodies are always creating new skin cells and, one at a time, they turn over, cell by cell. Our environment—and the change in season—skin type, routines, […]

Coffee still reigns supreme in many cultures as a morning fixture, tea is an integral part of daily life for people living in Blue Zones—regions of the world where people often live to be over a hundred years old whilst remaining in good health. Because it’s brewed from botanicals, all tea is high in antioxidants, which are linked to reducing […]

As cold winter temperatures urge us to hibernate, it is important to remember that there are many winter sports and activities available in the area! With ski resorts, skating rinks, hiking and snowshoeing trails, the Ottawa-Gatineau region is full of options for winter sports enthusiasts. After spending all of that energy playing outside, what better way to recover than a […]

Treat yourself to an at-home spa day with these 3 do-it-yourself skincare recipes. But don’t forget to always do a patch test! Brightening Blueberries Face Mask Give your skin an at-home detox with this berry good mask! Blueberries are jam-packed with vitamins and antioxidants. They support healthy glowing skin and help repair past damage. Lemon juice acts as a firming agent. Its […]

’Tis the season for quintessential holiday flavours! A slice (or two) of Thermëa’s Chef Maximus’ delicious eggnog cheesecake is sure to bring merriment to the table. Ingredients  For the crust  1 tsp of allspice   1 cup of graham crumbs   ¼ cup of white sugar   ⅓ cup of butter  For the filling   3 cups of cream cheese   1 cup of white sugar  1 […]

When our neighbourhoods turn into winter wonderlands and cozying up by the fire becomes more and more appealing, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a big bowl of something warm and comforting. Chef Maximus’ Turkey Arroz Caldo recipe feels exactly like a hug in a bowl. The Ingredients For 2 2 cups jasmine rice 2 cups of protein—we recommend shredded turkey 2 tbsp chopped ginger Your choice of cooked vegetables 1 lime Toasted garlic to taste 4 tbsp […]

It’s right around this time of the year that we could all use a couple of extra gift ideas. Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list with our 2021 Local Gift Guide! Treat your loved ones and your community in equal measure by supporting local shops and artisans. There’s no better way to spread some holiday cheer this year!    La Petite Grocerie  View this post […]

Aufguss, from the German “infusion”, is—in short—a multi-sensory wellness ritual. It stems from the idea that saunas serve a greater purpose than that of sweat alone. Why has this ancient form of thermotherapy prevailed? A harmonious dance of heat, each experience is as unique as it is therapeutic and meditative.   What is Aufguss?  In the simplest of terms, an Aufguss is a wellness experience that occurs in a sauna. It is led by an Aufgussmeister—or in our case, a […]

We all know about reusable bottles and shopping bags, non-plastic straws alternatives, carpooling, composting and recycling—but what other easy sustainable swaps could we try?    Local & Seasonal   The journeys our goods go one are a great pollutant. Imagine: you go to the grocery store and buy canned pears—they were grown in Argentina, packed in Thailand and are now being consumed in […]

Let’s go for a walk in the woods. No real destination in mind. No agenda. No plans. Just mindfulness practice, in the heart of nature. Let’s give forest bathing a chance.   What is forest bathing?  Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese practice known in English as forest bathing or forest therapy. Broadly, it refers to the experience of allowing one’s sense to be fully immersed in the […]

Last week, we asked our Instagram and Facebook followers what they read this summer. The sunny season may be coming to an end, but there are still a few warm and long days ahead! Whether you pack a book on a hike, read by the panoramic pool at the spa or always keep a novel on your bedside table, here is our community recommended end-of-summer reading list:   […]

Lately, we’ve been making our workspaces feel like home – literally, for many of us. Whether at your kitchen table, your home office, or back at your trusty cubicle, adding a variety of plants does wonders for both productivity and mood.   Here is a peek behind the curtain of how we embellish our corporate office with greenery!     […]

Our very own Chef David Arseneau answered some of our questions so that we may get to know him—and his food—a little better. How did you become a chef here at Nordik? Le Nordik has always been a prominent fixture in the Outaouais region. With a kitchen that highlights produce from local farms, and with a team of passionate highly […]