Why Pair Outdoor Sauna with Cold Plunge
Posted on 17 October 2023
Whether you’re unwinding in a luxurious cabin sauna or relaxing in a cozy barrel sauna, there’s no denying the incredible benefits of a steamy sauna session. The gentle warmth and soothing ambiance is a stress-buster with potent health advantages. But did you know you can supercharge those benefits and upscale your sauna experience to a whole new level? Try pairing your sauna routine with a cold plunge or ice bath for that ‘wow’ factor! The Nords have used the ‘hot sauna, icy water’ routine for centuries. Here’s why cold plunging after a sauna session is all the rage.
Good Stress for Greater Resilience
Pairing your outdoor sauna with a cold plunge creates a shocking contrast, known as “contrast therapy.” When done correctly, it triggers hormesis, the body’s natural ability to adapt to external stressors to become stronger. Pairing a warm barrel sauna session with an icy cold plunge exposes our body to varying temperatures, allowing it to acclimate and become more resilient. The temperature changes from the sauna to the cold plunge stimulate the immune system to release more white blood cells and neutrophils. The icy water exposure also boosts plasma concentration of glutathione–an antioxidant vital for the proper functioning of t-cell lymphocytes.
Maximizing Health Benefits
The combination of the hot sauna and icy water maximizes the health benefits of both. Firstly, the sauna heat induces a deep sweat to flush out toxins and revitalize your body. The heat also causes the nervous system to dilate the blood vessels and increase blood flow. This helps relax muscles and joints, providing relief from soreness and tension. On the other hand, the ice bath or cold plunge stimulates vasoconstriction, causing your blood vessels to contract and redirect blood flow to your vital organs. The result? Better cardiovascular health, detoxification, and pain relief.
Improved Muscle Recovery & Performance
An intense workout or training session can leave your muscles inflamed and fatigued. A post-workout cabin sauna session followed by a cold plunge helps reduce inflammation and accelerates muscle recovery. The improved circulation from this contrast therapy also means your muscles get more oxygen and nutrients, leading to better performance and endurance. This unorthodox pairing can be a secret weapon for fitness enthusiasts and athletes aiming to elevate their fitness game.
Weight Loss
The dynamic fusion of cold plunging and sauna bathing can ignite your body’s fat-burning potential! A cold plunge stimulates the brown adipose tissue, incinerating fat to maintain your core warmth. Meanwhile, the barrel sauna’s warm embrace cranks up your heart and metabolic rate. Akin to a mini cardio session it ensures you torch those additional calories.
Stress Reduction & Mental Clarity
Saunas are renowned for their stress-reducing effects, and their benefits are amplified when paired with a cold plunge. The sauna helps relax and calm your nervous system, while the cold plunge releases endorphins and boosts adrenaline. The refreshing contrast between hot and cold invigorates the body and mind, leaving us mentally alert and focused. While cold plunging triggers a flight or fight response, your body gradually adapts to the icy water. Over time, you learn to handle that stress and even find it easier to manage everyday stressors.
Undoubtedly, the sauna-plunge combination can be a potent stress-buster and mood enhancer.
Leverage Your SaunaFin Sauna with a Cold Plunge
Pairing your barrel sauna with a cold plunge is more than a fad; it’s a wellness revolution. Embrace the hot and cold magic with SaunaFin’s invigorating duo of luxurious saunas and cold plunges.
Discover true serenity & wellness.
