Holistic skin therapist Lauren Ryburn shares one of her favourite rituals for reconnecting with nature and nourishing the skin. Simple, grounding, and steeped in plant wisdom, this facial steam is a beautiful way to slow down and honour the sacred in everyday care.
One of my favourite self-care rituals is a facial steam — it weaves together skincare, our connection to the earth, and offers a harmonising sensory experience that promotes calm and stillness.
Steam bathing has been around for centuries, dating back millennia to the ancient Greek and Roman civilisations. This home ritual is a beautiful way to honour this ancient practice.
It cleanses and warms, benefiting not just your skin but your overall wellbeing. You may like to forage herbs and flowers from your garden or surrounding whenua/land and share a steam session with friends.
Why Steaming?
It softens your skin, opening pores to release impurities while inviting nourishing herbs to work their magic. It’s your moment to unwind and breathe deeply.
When to Steam?
- During winter, when you feel under the weather with blocked sinuses or congestion
- As a ritual during a cleanse or detox journey
- When you feel in need of some calm, comfort and gentle pampering
- To attune to the season, the land, and the plants and herbs growing nearby
- When your skin feels like it needs nourishment, soothing and extra support
Herbal Inspiration
Every herb offers a unique gift for your skin. You can tailor your steam blend and experiment with new herbs and plants or even plant a small patch to pick from.
Some of my favourites are:
- Kawakawa – a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and nurturing healer
- Rosemary – ideal for congested, acne-prone skin, and also antimicrobial, antiviral, and supportive of the respiratory system
- Rose petals – timelessly soothing, restorative, and nourishing
- Calendula flowers – gentle, calming, and perfect for healing and tissue support
All these herbs are easy to gather from native bush walks or from your backyard and afterwards, return to your garden or compost to honour nature’s cycle.
What You’ll Need:
- A sturdy bowl, ideally ceramic or metal, to retain the heat
- Fresh herbs are a delight, but dried herbs or loose-leaf teas work beautifully too
- Boiling hot water – collect fresh rain or spring water if you can, but it’s not essential
- A soft towel and a light blanket
- A cushion to support the bowl
- Optional: some calming music to enhance your experience
Your Ritual in Steps:
- Begin with a clean face, free from makeup or products.
- Place your herbs into the bowl, then pour hot water over them, filling it about halfway.
- Find a seated, upright position — comfortable and relaxed.
- Rest your cushion on your lap, then cover it with your towel.
- Securely place the bowl on the cushion.
- Drape your blanket over your head and shoulders, creating a cosy, enclosed cocoon of warmth and steam.
- Lean in gently, maintaining about an 8cm distance from the water. If possible, rest your forehead on the bowl’s rim.
- Take slow, restorative breaths through your nose, then exhale gently through your mouth.
- Relax and breathe deeply for approximately 6 to 10 minutes — feel free to take breaks or set a timer. Let the herbs and steam envelop you.
- Finish with a gentle massage using your favourite facial oil, serum, or balm, while your pores are open and receptive.
A Gentle Reminder
Always approach with care — test the temperature, and keep your face at a safe distance to prevent any discomfort. If your skin is sensitive or prone to redness and inflammation, listen to your body, reduce the steam time, and space out your sessions.
This simple ritual connects you with the land, your senses, and your inner calm — a beautiful gift of self-nourishment and mindfulness. Enjoy every moment of this sacred ceremony.
