Sauna & Cold Plunge...The Why

The Why Behind the Utilization of Thermic Cycle Therapy

"Why in the world would I sit in a 180-degree room, and then follow it up with a bone-chilling 45-degree plunge?" This is the question I get most often from those that are new to the idea of Sauna and Cold Plunge, and to be fair it is a great question.

Perhaps the most shocking part about utilizing Sauna and Cold Plunge together is that you are combining two extremes. The "Thermic Cycle", as it is called, is simply an extension of the routines that have been practiced in Finland, Korea, Russia, Japan, and Turkey (to name a few) for thousands of years. The positive health effects have been recognized by many societies for ages.

This therapy may in some ways seem dangerous, and it can be if not exercised with purpose. If done properly, and with the correct intentions, it allows the body to regulate in ways that otherwise are hard to accomplish. The main benefits of engaging in a regular thermic cycle routine are vast, including: inflammation reduction, increased blood flow, detoxification, strengthened immune system, skin rejuvenation, enhanced sleep, as well as many psychological benefits as it relates to mental fortitude and an overall feeling of well-being.

I could fill up an entire book on this topic, and there are in fact many of them out there. In terms of scientific evidence, a great number of research studies support the health benefits, many of which I will refer to in upcoming posts. Now, as always, there is more research that can be done, should be done, and there is more research continually being compiled.

It is important to point out, the thermic cycle works best when it is built up to. Just like when you first begin exercising, nobody starts out running a marathon, or benching 250 lbs. For that reason, we recommend a graduated approach to the hot and the cold to get your body used to its effect. Also, it is important to note that the thermic cycle is not for everyone. For example, it is not recommended for those who are prone to high blood pressure, pregnant, have known heart issues, or are in any way ill during the time of its use. In these situations, the extreme temperature change could shock the system resulting in added stress to already stressed areas of the body.

If you want to geek out, check out some of our other posts, or dive deep into some of the following links:

• https://www.foundmyfitness.com/episodes/from-hot-to-cold-benefits-and-risks-associated-with-cold-water-immersion-after-sauna-use

• https://www.xptlife.com/getting-to-the-heat-and-the-cold-of-the-matter-contrast-therapy-101-part-1

• https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/podcast/lifestyle-podcasts/hot-and-cold-therapy/