The Benefits of Contrast Therapy (Sauna + Cold Shower)

The practice of taking a cold shower after using a far infrared sauna is gaining popularity, and for good reason. This seemingly uncomfortable ritual actually provides a host of health benefits that can significantly improve your overall wellbeing. In this post, we'll explore the science behind why taking a cold shower after using a far infrared sauna is beneficial and some of the advantages that you can expect to experience.

What is a far infrared sauna?

A far infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared heaters to emit infrared light, which is absorbed directly by the body. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air around you, far infrared saunas penetrate the skin to a depth of up to 1.5 inches, providing a more effective and efficient way to detoxify your body and promote healing.

Benefits of using a far infrared sauna

Using a far infrared sauna has numerous benefits, including:

1. Detoxification: Far infrared saunas are a great way to detoxify your body as they increase sweating, which helps remove toxins from the body.

2. Improved circulation: The heat from the far infrared sauna dilates blood vessels and improves circulation, which can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing.

3. Boosted immune system: Regular use of a far infrared sauna has been shown to boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells.

4. Reduced stress: The heat and relaxation of the sauna can help reduce stress, lower cortisol levels, and improve overall mental health.

Benefits of taking a cold shower after using a far infrared sauna

While the benefits of using a far infrared sauna are impressive, taking a cold shower after a sauna session can further enhance these benefits. Here are some of the advantages:

1. Reduces inflammation: The cold water causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing inflammation and swelling.

2. Enhances circulation: Cold water causes blood vessels to contract and then dilate, which can enhance circulation and speed up recovery.

3. Relieves muscle soreness: The cold water can also help reduce muscle soreness and aid in recovery after exercise.

4. Improves skin health: Cold water can tighten pores, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and improve skin health overall.

5. Boosts mood: The shock of the cold water can release endorphins, providing an energizing and mood-boosting effect.

The combination of using a far infrared sauna followed by a cold shower is a form of contrast therapy that provides a wide range of health benefits that are worth the effort, and it can also be a relaxing and rejuvenating form of self-care that can help you unwind and destress. Contrast therapy involves alternating between hot and cold temperatures, which can enhance the detoxification, circulation, and immune-boosting effects of the sauna while also reducing inflammation, relieving muscle soreness, improving skin health, and boosting your mood. So, the next time you use a far infrared sauna, remember to take a cold shower afterwards and indulge in this therapeutic and invigorating ritual.

References:

1. Glickman, E. L. (2010). Infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors: summary of published evidence. Canadian family physician, 56(7), 691-696.

2. Kojima, A., & Otsuka, T. (2005). Effect of far-infrared ray on blood circulation. Journal of the Japanese Physical Therapy Association, 8(2), 49-55.

3. Huang, M. Y., & Lin, Y. R. (2015). Far-infrared ray (FIR) therapy: An effective and oncological safe treatment modality for breast cancer related lymphedema. Journal of Cancer Research and Practice, 2(2), 45-50.