The Best Cold Plunge & Sauna Routine (Benefits of Hot, Cold, & Contrast Therapy)
Aug 12, 2024
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In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Josh Axe, a wellness expert, dives into the transformative practice of cold plunging. He reveals how cold exposure can reduce sick days significantly and boost dopamine by a staggering 250%. Discover essential tips for optimal temperatures and safe practices. Dr. Axe also discusses who should steer clear of cold plunging, and its surprising benefits for athletes and Type 2 diabetes management. This engaging conversation offers actionable insights to enhance your health journey!
Cold plunging can lead to a significant 54% reduction in sick days when combined with regular exercise, benefiting overall health.
Individuals with certain conditions, such as heart disease and hypothyroidism, should avoid cold plunging due to potential health risks.
Deep dives
Understanding Cold Plunging
Cold plunging involves immersing the body in cold water, typically between 50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit, to enhance physical and mental wellbeing. This temperature range is effective without being dangerously cold, as it triggers beneficial physiological responses. Beginners are advised to start with brief exposures of one to two minutes a couple of times a week, gradually increasing up to five or a maximum of ten minutes. Proper adaptation is crucial to avoid excessive stress on the body, as overexposure can lead to injuries similar to those caused by intense physical training.
Health Benefits of Cold Plunging
Scientific studies highlight several health benefits associated with cold plunging, including reduced inflammation, increased circulation, and immune system enhancement. Cold exposure has been shown to speed up muscle recovery, decrease illness susceptibility, and support metabolic functions, which is beneficial for individuals with type two diabetes. For instance, research indicates that individuals who switched to a cold shower after a warm one effectively reduced sick days, reinforcing the immune-boosting properties of cold exposure. Additionally, cold plunging can trigger the release of endorphins, leading to improved mood and mental toughness, promoting overall resilience.
Who Should and Should Not Cold Plunge
Cold plunging is suitable for healthy adults, particularly athletes who engage in regular training and experience elevated body temperatures. However, specific populations should avoid cold plunging, such as those with heart conditions, Raynaud's disease, and hypothyroidism due to the potential adverse effects of cold exposure. Individuals with digestive issues or chronic fatigue may also be negatively impacted and need to approach cold plunging cautiously. The guidance suggests combining cold plunging with heat therapy for those who may be sensitive to cold, effectively balancing the effects on body temperature and overall wellbeing.
Combining Cold and Heat Therapy
Utilizing a combination of cold and heat therapy, known as contrast therapy, can amplify recovery benefits for various conditions, enhancing circulation and reducing muscle soreness. Alternating between hot and cold environments is noted to provide significant advantages, especially for injury recovery and overall physical endurance. Specific protocols, such as transitioning from an infrared sauna to a cold plunge or vice versa, have shown promising outcomes in studies and personal accounts alike. By managing exposure times and understanding personal limits, individuals can effectively personalize their regimen to maximize recovery and wellness benefits.
Did you know that combining cold showers with regular exercise could reduce your sick days by a whopping 54%? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Axe breaks down the science behind cold plunging and its surprising benefits for your mind and body.
Discover:
The optimal temperature and duration for maximum cold plunge benefits
How cold exposure can skyrocket your dopamine levels by 250%
How cold plunging can enhance performance for athletes
The unexpected link between cold plunging and Type 2 diabetes management
Who should avoid cold plunging
Expert tips for safely incorporating cold plunging into your wellness routine
Tune in to arm yourself with cutting-edge knowledge on this powerful health practice. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, biohacker, or simply curious about natural ways to boost your wellbeing, this episode will leave you with actionable insights to elevate your health game. Don't miss out on this cool opportunity to transform your approach to wellness!
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