If you're interested in improving your physical and mental health, you know how often you look for ways to gain that extra edge in wellness. Engaging in a hot sauna and cold plunge routine allows individuals to harness a diverse range of benefits, addressing various aspects of physical and mental well-being.
Here are 7 benefits of sauna and cold plunging contrast therapy:
Boost Energy Levels
According to research the transition from a hot sauna to cold temperatures causes your heart rate to increase. This move also constricts your blood vessels and sends a sudden rush of adrenaline and endorphins racing through you. The results? An amazing feeling! Your mind is put into sudden focus and your body is activated in response.
Increases Circulation
Alternating between hot and cold temperatures can stimulate blood flow and improve circulation. The heat from the sauna causes blood vessels to dilate, while the cold plunge causes them to constrict. This contrast can enhance overall circulation, potentially benefiting cardiovascular health.
Enhances Immune Function
Scientists have found that an elevated body temperature can help certain types of immune cells function better. In this way, sauna sessions could help to keep you from falling sick, especially during colder winter months.
Promotes Faster Muscle Repair
And what about speeding up your recovery? Cold plunges help reduce muscle inflammation and soreness by constricting blood vessels and decreasing metabolic activity, which may aid in muscle recovery after intense exercise. Saunas, on the other hand, can relax muscles and relieve tension.
Burns "Brown" Fat for Weight Loss
Brown fat, or brown adipose tissue (BAT) , is a specialized type of fat in the body that generates heat by burning energy, which plays an important role in regulating body temperature. Scientists think that alternating between chilled water and a hot sauna affects how your brown fat burns energy and produces heat, which can affect how you keep and lose weight.
Improves Skin Health
The combination of heat and cold exposure can positively affect the skin. Saunas may help cleanse the skin by promoting sweating, while cold plunges can tighten pores and improve skin tone. The alternating temperatures can contribute to a healthy complexion.
Reduces Stress
Both saunas and cold plunges have been linked to stress reduction. Saunas promote relaxation by increasing the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. Then, the shock of cold water in an ice bath can help trigger the release of stress-reducing hormones.
After a hard day's work or a difficult workout, a sauna and then a cold plunge can feel amazing. Going from a sauna to cold water can bring many potential benefits, as described above. Let us help you find the perfect one.
The post 7 Benefits of Sauna & Cold Plunge Contrast Therapy appeared first on Pettis Pools.