Cold water immersion therapy, also known as cold therapy or cryotherapy, involves immersing the body or a part of the body in cold water for a short period of time, typically a few minutes. This therapy is often used as a way to promote recovery and reduce inflammation after intense physical exercise or injury.
During cold water immersion therapy, the cold temperature of the water causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to the area. This can help to reduce inflammation and swelling, and can also help to reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
Additionally, the cold temperature can help to numb pain, making it a useful therapy for conditions such as arthritis or other types of chronic pain.
The Main Benefits of Arctic Ice Baths
Athletic Recovery
Studies show that cold water therapy helps to reduce muscle inflammation and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Several studies have assessed the interest of different strategies in accelerating the rate of recovery, with sleep and cold water immersion (CWI) demonstrating the highest scientific level of evidence. CWI, similar to icing, has been a commonly prescribed protocol to provide instant relief for any acute injury.
Mental Health
Cold water therapy has been shown to increase your energy levels and improve mood and general brain function while reducing anxiety and stress.² Plasma noradrenaline and dopamine concentrations were increased by 530% and by 250% respectively. These two powerful neurotransmitters help regulate critical bodily functions such as controlling sleep, alertness, and blood pressure; and play a key role in movement, pleasure, motivation, and learning.
Immune Support
Cold water therapy boosts cardiovascular circulation which is beneficial for a healthy heart and stronger immune system. CWI triggers the immune system’s white blood cells and activates your lymphatic system to pump lymph fluids throughout your body and flush out waste. Other studies have suggested that daily exposure to cold water could, over a period of weeks or months, boost antitumor immunity.
Sleep
CWI has been shown to improve sleep quality. One study found that athletes who immerse themselves in cold water for ten minutes after evening exercise experience a drop in core body temperature, fewer nighttime arousals, and a greater proportion of deep sleep within the first three hours of sleep. This improvement in sleep also contributes to athletic recovery and overall wellness.
Weight Loss
In addition to the many other physical benefits, cold water immersion has also been shown to increase the body’s metabolism by 16% and convert white fat to beneficial brown fat. Brown fat is consumed to produce heat, as opposed to unhealthy white fat which is stored to provide energy later.
Focus & Energy
Through the release of powerful neurotransmitters, the effect of cold water immersion can significantly boost energy levels and provide focus for hours after a plunge. The best part is that these increases are repeatable time and time again so that there is no diminishing value of getting in cold water. The release of certain neural chemicals that make you feel alert and focused are seen as comparable to skydiving or bungee jumping for the first time!
Contact Us
Thank you for your interest in our company. If you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
To get in touch, you can use the contact form on our website. If you prefer to speak with someone directly, you can call us on 086 050 4154
We look forward to hearing from you and assisting you with any of your needs.