Dr. Susanna Søberg, a leading expert in cold and heat exposure therapy, reveals groundbreaking research on the effects of deliberate temperature exposure. She discusses brown fat activation, the physiological changes caused by cold therapy, and the positive impact on mental health. The podcast also explores the benefits of winter swimming, sauna usage, and alternating hot and cold therapy. Dr. Søberg emphasizes the importance of pursuing activities that bring joy and connection in life.
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Quick takeaways
Regular cold therapy, such as winter swimming or cold water exposure, activates brown fat, improves glucose balance, and aids in burning fat.
Cold therapy activates neurotransmitters like dopamine and noradrenaline, leading to increased energy and motivation, as well as a feeling of calmness and gratitude.
Heat therapy, particularly through sauna use, can improve blood flow, collagen production, and wound healing, making the skin appear younger and improving conditions like eczema.
Deep dives
Cold Therapy and its Effects on Metabolism
Cold therapy, such as winter swimming or cold water exposure, has been shown to activate brown fat and increase metabolism. Studies have found that deliberate cold exposure can lead to an increase in brown fat activation and improved glucose balance. Winter swimmers who regularly exposed themselves to cold water had lower insulin levels and a better ability to process glucose. Cold therapy also activates the sympathetic nervous system and releases neurotransmitters like dopamine, noradrenaline, and oxytocin, resulting in increased happiness and gratitude. Regular cold therapy can help in burning fat and improving overall health.
The Science of Cold Therapy
Cold therapy, whether through winter swimming or cold showers, activates the fight or flight response and triggers an increase in neurotransmitters like dopamine and noradrenaline. These neurotransmitters lead to an increase in energy and motivation. Cold therapy also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in a feeling of calmness and gratitude. The release of these neurotransmitters and activation of the nervous system can have profound effects on mental health and well-being.
Heat Therapy and its Benefits
Heat therapy, such as sauna use, has been shown to have numerous benefits. Infrared saunas, in particular, can increase collagen and elastin in the skin, making it appear younger. Heat therapy also dilates blood vessels, improves blood flow, and aids in wound healing. Infrared saunas have shown positive effects on conditions like eczema, improving symptoms and reducing redness. Heat therapy, whether through traditional or infrared saunas, can be a milder alternative to cold therapy and still offer various health benefits.
The Mind-Body Connection of Cold and Heat Therapy
Cold and heat therapy have a profound impact on both the mind and body. By activating the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, neurotransmitters like dopamine, noradrenaline, and oxytocin are released, leading to increased happiness, gratitude, and overall well-being. Cold and heat therapy also improve blood flow, metabolism, and glucose balance, aiding in fat loss and promoting better overall health. These therapies can be transformative, helping individuals find balance, improve mental health, and increase self-love.
Benefits of Sauna Use
Regular sauna use, specifically the Finnish-style saunas, has been found to have several health benefits. A study conducted in Finland followed thousands of sauna bathers over 20 years and found that frequent sauna use, particularly 2-3 times per week, can lead to a 27% lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, going to the sauna more frequently, even up to 7 times per week, can result in a significant reduction of up to 46% in the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, it is important to keep the sauna sessions within a certain time window, with 30 minutes being the maximum to avoid diminishing returns and potential negative effects on the body.
Heat and Cold Therapy for Physical and Mental Resilience
Cold and heat therapy, when practiced in a controlled and intentional manner, can provide various physical and mental health benefits. Combining hot and cold therapy in the same day, such as alternating between cold plunges and saunas, can optimize metabolism, burn excess calories, and improve resilience to pain and stress. Cold therapy, particularly plunging into cold water, helps activate brown fat and increases metabolic activity, leading to calorie burn and improved thermoregulation. Heat therapy, such as sauna use, increases pain tolerance and enhances the body's ability to handle stress. Additionally, adopting specific breathing techniques, like slow nasal breathing or box breathing, can further enhance the mind-body connection and promote relaxation and focus. However, it is essential to personalize and tailor heat and cold therapy protocols to individual needs and physical conditions.
Dr. Susanna Søberg is a leading expert in the world of cold and heat exposure therapy. With years of dedicated research, she has become a trailblazer in understanding the profound effects of deliberate temperature exposure on the human body and mind. Her groundbreaking findings and contributions to the field have positioned her as a visionary in the realm of metabolism, psychology, and holistic well-being. Dr. Søberg's expertise is not only shaping our understanding of cold and heat therapy but also empowering individuals to optimize their physical and mental health through these transformative practices.