Why do people cold plunge, cryo and take cold showers? Good question, it’s not to show how badass we are (well maybe for some of us). There are real health benefits to using cold therapy. Research has shown that cold therapy or cryotherapy as some call it, has many potential benefits, Here are 7 reasons to cold plunge:
- Reduced Inflammation: Cold therapy can help decrease inflammation by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the affected area. This can be beneficial for managing conditions like arthritis or acute injuries.
- Pain Relief: Cold therapy is often used to alleviate pain, especially in the case of injuries or chronic conditions. The numbing effect of cold temperatures can temporarily reduce nerve activity and dull pain sensations.
- Muscle Recovery: Athletes commonly use cold therapy to speed up muscle recovery after intense physical activities. Cold temperatures may help reduce muscle soreness and prevent delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
- Improved Circulation: While cold therapy initially reduces blood flow, the body responds by increasing circulation to warm up the affected areas. This can improve overall blood flow and cardiovascular health over time.
- Boosted Metabolism: Exposure to cold temperatures can activate brown adipose tissue, a type of fat that burns calories to generate heat. This may contribute to weight management and increased metabolism.
- Enhanced Mood and Well-Being: Cold therapy is believed to stimulate the release of endorphins, which are hormones that contribute to feelings of well-being and happiness. Some people find cold exposure invigorating and mood-boosting.
- Skin Health: Cold therapy may have positive effects on the skin, promoting collagen production and improving skin tone. Cold temperatures can also constrict blood vessels, reducing the appearance of puffiness and redness.
While cold plunge therapy can be helpful, it is not for everyone. For instance, if you suffer from certain medical conditions, such as Raynaud’s disease or cardiovascular issues, you should consult with a healthcare professional before attempting cold therapy. Additionally, the duration and intensity of cold exposure should be carefully monitored to avoid potential adverse effects like frostbite.
A simple way to introduce yourself to cold therapy could be to turn your warm shower faucet cooler until you have it somewhat cold. Do it for 10 or 20 seconds and keep increasing both the time and the coldness with every shower.
If you want to go the plunge route, you can fill a cold plunge barrel or container with cold water, add ice to make it colder and sit submerged (you can leave your head out). Start with a short plunge and keep working up to 2-5 minutes.
Here’s more on the benefits of cold plunging.