Saunas have been used for centuries by ancient civilizations for their health benefits. Today, people still turn to saunas for their potential benefits, such as muscle relaxation, stress relief, and cardiovascular health.
However, there is a new trend in the sauna world: contrast therapy utilizing cold plunge tubs and infrared saunas. But are these methods effective for fighting off colds? Find out how contrast therapy can help with your colds during the flu season.
Contrast Therapy Utilizing Cold Plunge Tubs and Infrared Saunas
Contrast therapy, or the alternating use of hot and cold therapies, is becoming increasingly popular. By utilizing both hot and cold therapies, individuals can experience the benefits of each. Contrast therapy utilizing cold plunge tanks and infrared saunas is one method of this practice.
Cold Plunge Routine: How It Works
A cold plunge routine involves immersing the entire body in cold water after a hot sauna session. The cold water causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing inflammation and swelling.
The chilled water also helps decrease muscle soreness and aids in muscle recovery. Additionally, the cold water immersion leads to the production of cold shock proteins, which aid in the healing process.
Infrared Sauna Experiences: What They Are
Infrared saunas are a newer type of sauna that uses infrared heat to warm the body, rather than the creation of heat through extreme temperatures. Infrared heat penetrates the skin and heats the body from within, leading to increased blood flow and circulation.
Unlike traditional saunas, which can be uncomfortable for some due to the extreme heat, infrared saunas provide a more comfortable experience. Infrared sauna blankets are also available for at-home use.
How Contrast Therapy Can Help with Colds
Contrast therapy has been found to have numerous health benefits. One of these benefits is the potential to provide relief from colds.
When you catch a cold, your body's immune response is triggered, resulting in inflammation, congestion, and increased mucus production. Contrast therapy can help alleviate these symptoms and potentially speed up the healing process. Here's how contrast therapy can help with colds:
Reduced Inflammation
The cold plunge routine can help reduce inflammation, which is a key factor in cold symptoms. Cold water immersion and vasoconstriction help reduce swelling and inflammation, which can lead to a decrease in congestion and mucus production.
Boosted Immune System
Cold water immersion can also help boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. These cells are essential for fighting off infections, including the common cold.
Improved Blood Flow
Alternating between hot saunas and cold plunge tanks can also improve blood flow and circulation. This increased blood flow can help vital organs and tissues receive the nutrients and oxygen they need to function properly and fight off illness.
Reduced Stress Hormone Levels
Sauna sessions can help decrease stress hormone levels, such as cortisol, which can weaken the immune system. A weakened immune system can make it easier for viruses to take hold, leading to colds and other illnesses.
While there is no cure for the common cold, contrast therapy can help alleviate symptoms and potentially speed up the healing process. By alternating between hot and cold therapies, it can help your body fight off illness and recover more quickly.
The Best Practices for Contrast Therapy
When it comes to contrast therapy, there are some best practices to keep in mind to ensure maximum benefit and safety. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your contrast therapy experience:
Start Slow
It's important to start slow and gradually build up the intensity of your contrast therapy sessions. Begin with shorter sessions and lower temperatures to give your body time to adjust to the therapy. Over time, you can gradually increase the duration and temperature of your sessions as your body becomes accustomed to the therapy.
Stay Hydrated
It's essential to drink plenty of water before and after your contrast therapy sessions. Contrast therapy can be dehydrating, and staying hydrated can help your body heal and recover more quickly. Drinking water before your sessions can also help you sweat more, which can enhance the benefits of the therapy.
Choose the Right Temperatures
Choosing the right temperatures for your hot and cold therapies is important. For hot therapies, temperatures should be between 160-190°F. For cold therapies, temperatures should be between 50-60°F. Exposing your body to temperatures outside of this range can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.
Listen to Your Body
During contrast therapy sessions, it's important to pay attention to how your body feels. If you experience discomfort or any adverse effects, stop the therapy immediately. Contrast therapy can be intense, and it's important to listen to your body and adjust accordingly.
Consult with a Healthcare Professional
If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning contrast therapy. Certain health conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, may make contrast therapy unsafe. Healthcare professionals can provide guidance on how to get the most benefit from contrast therapy and determine if it is safe for you.
Experience the Ultimate Contrast Experience with RENU Therapy
Are you ready to take your wellness routine to the next level? Our top-of-the-line cold plunge tubs and infrared saunas offer the ultimate contrast therapy experience. By combining the benefits of hot and cold therapies, you can boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of the common cold.
At RENU Therapy, we are committed to providing high-quality products that are both effective and safe. We manufacture all of our hot and cold therapy tubs in the USA, and we provide the best warranties in the industry. We are proud to deliver 100% customer satisfaction on every cold plunge tank we sell.
You can choose from a wide variety of beautiful cold plunge tubs and hot plunge tubs that will add a touch of elegance to any home's design. No matter, if you're an athlete looking to speed up your recovery time or just someone seeking a natural way to boost your immunity, our cold plunge tubs and infrared saunas, are the perfect addition to your wellness routine.
So why wait? Contact us at 714-617-2007 at RENU Therapy today!
