An emerging tradition are cold plunges, beneficial not only for physical well-being but also for mental health. As the new year develops and many of us outline our “ins and outs” for 2024, this tradition convincingly deserves a spot on your list of resolutions.
The Benefits of a Cold Plunge
Robyn Hatton, explains how this can benefit your body:
“Cold water therapy, also known as cold water immersion involves immersing the body in cold water for a short period of time. This practice is linked to a variety of health benefits, including:
Reduced Inflammation & Muscle Recovery:
Cold water therapy may help reduce muscle soreness and inflammation in the body after intense physical activity. It constricts blood vessels and lowers metabolic activity, which can reduce swelling and tissue breakdown.
Mood Enhancement:
Cold water therapy can also cause an increase in levels of endorphins or bodies produced therefore it’s our body’s natural mood lifters coming into play. This can boost positivity and reduce symptoms of depression.
Improved Sleep:
Some individuals find that cold water therapy, especially when taken before bedtime, can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Stress Reduction:
Cold water therapy may activate the body’s stress response, leading to increased tolerance to stress over time.
Skin and Hair Health:
Cold water can constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness, which may contribute to healthier-looking skin. Additionally, cold water exposure may improve hair health and shine.
Increased Endurance:
Regular cold water therapy has also been suggested to potentially improve endurance by enhancing our cardiovascular strength therefore increasing the body’s tolerance to stress on the cardiovascular system overtime.
(It’s important to note that while many people find cold plunges beneficial, individual responses can vary. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions, before incorporating cold plunges into your routine. Additionally, it’s crucial to start gradually and not push the body into extreme cold exposure without proper acclimatisation.)”
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Karsten Winegeart
Isaac Burke
Eleanor Carter
Lance Reis
