In recent years, cold plunges have gained popularity as a revitalizing and invigorating practice for both the body and mind. People have started incorporating the practice into their morning routine, or for recovery after a hard workout. This ancient technique, often associated with traditional Scandinavian saunas and Russian banya, involves completely immersing yourself in ice-cold water for a brief period.
While the idea of voluntarily subjecting your body to freezing temperatures might seem unusual, cold plunge tubs offer a variety of benefits that make them worth exploring, and a great thing to introduce into your daily routine.
The Benefits Of Cold Plunge
Cold plunges, also known as cold water immersion, consist of immersing your body in water with temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to as low as 32°F (0°C). It can be as simple as taking a dip in a cold lake, using an ice bath, or even incorporating specialized cold plunge tubs in modern wellness centers. The duration of a cold plunge can vary depending on personal preference and tolerance, but most sessions last between 1-5 minutes. During your time using cold plunge you will experience a plethora of health benefits.
Enhance Circulation & Recovery:
Cold plunges stimulate vasoconstriction, a process where blood vessels constrict in response to cold temperatures. This constriction helps to improve blood circulation by pushing blood towards vital organs and tissues. After the cold exposure, the body experiences vasodilation, which allows blood to flow more efficiently once the body warms up again. This cycle promotes a healthier cardiovascular system and accelerates muscle recovery after intense physical activity. This is why the cold plunge is particularly popular amongst trainers, athletes, and overall active people.
Immune Support:
Cold water immersion has a positive impact on the immune system as a whole. Studies have suggested that regular cold plunges can increase the production of white blood cells, which play a vital role in defending the body against diseases and infections. By boosting your immune system, cold plunges may help you stay healthy and ward off illnesses in the long term.
Better Sleep:
Cold plunges can also cause your body to create hormones that compliment good sleep. One such hormone is melatonin, often referred to as the “sleep hormone.” Melatonin production is influenced by light exposure and temperature. Exposing your body to cold water in the evening can help increase melatonin production, signaling to your body that it’s time to sleep. Cold water immersion can also provide relief from muscle tension and soreness by reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation. It can also alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as arthritis or sports injuries, allowing you to sleep more comfortably without discomfort or pain.
Boost Your Mood:
One of the reasons many people have built the cold plunge into their morning routine is due to its ability to boost your mood better than a cup of coffee ever could. The shock of cold water triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood-enhancing chemicals. These endorphins create a feeling of euphoria and can help alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Cold immersion also promotes mental alertness, concentration, and a sense of invigoration, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Bring Home The Cold Plunge Experience
The daily routine of cold plunges can provide an array of benefits for your mind, body, and overall well-being. From improved circulation, to enhanced mental health and mood, the advantages of cold water immersion are numerous. At New England Spas we offer the latest in home cold plunge tub technology and capability. So, take the plunge and unlock the refreshing and rejuvenating power of the cold plunge tub!
