When it comes to health, it seems like the latest craze is always changing. But what if we told you that cold water therapy has been around for millennia? Cold water therapy, also known as cold hydrotherapy, is the practice of using water that's around 59°F (15°C) to treat health conditions or stimulate health benefits.
From ice baths to outdoor swims and everything in between, cold water therapy can be used in a variety of ways. Brisk daily showers are becoming more popular among those who want to give cold water therapy a try without taking an entire ice bath. Ice baths are definitely one of the most popular methods and involve sitting in a bath filled with icy water for about 10 minutes at a time. They may be uncomfortable but studies have shown that regular use can have numerous health benefits.Â
Cold water immersion therapy sessions are growing increasingly popular among athletes and anyone looking for quick relief from soreness and tension after workouts. Immersion sessions involve immersing oneself in icy-cold water up to the shoulders while taking deep breaths to ensure oxygen gets distributed evenly throughout the body and improve circulation.Â
Although the effects of cold water therapy can vary depending on how you use it, its potential benefits include improved mood and reduced anxiety, enhanced athletic performance, decreased muscle pain and tension, boosted energy levels, and increased circulation throughout the body which supports healthy blood pressure levels.Â
If you’re looking for a way to give your overall health a boost or reduce muscle soreness post-workout, why not give cold water therapy a try? With so many ways to do it—from short daily showers to long immersion sessions—you’ll definitely find something that works for you!