Cold plunge therapy and its benefits: “A powerful coping mechanism during periods of stress and life transition”
The health benefits are still disputed but many swear by the open-air cold plunge.
For most people a jump into freezing cold water does not sound like a relaxing pursuit. But there are many who swear by the physical and mental health benefits that a cold plunge can offer.
Cold plunges have been credited with helping various different conditions and ailments, from muscle fatigue to sleep struggles. The intensity and the shock factor of a sudden temperature drop can certainly illicit some strong reactions from the body but scientific proof of the benefits has been fairly modest so far.
Earlier this year a research study in Sweden tracked the experiences of nine people aged 44 to 70, all of whom regularly did cold water plunges. That research found positive anecdotal experiences, describing cold plunging as “a powerful coping mechanism during periods of stress and life transition, often beginning in midlife when facing personal or professional challenges.”
The Mayo Clinic has looked at the value of cold plunging immediately after exercise in a bid to reduce inflammation and soreness. A similar technique is used by many top athletes and teams, who use ice bathes after exercise to aid recovery.
In an article published by the Mayo Clinic, cold water immersions was found to “reduce the degree of exercise-induced muscle damage that can occur after physically challenging activities.” Evidence suggested that the practice can help to lessen inflammation “which in turn reduces soreness and helps restore physical performance the next day”.
However the evidence isn’t entirely positive. Aside from the obvious discomfort - which will put off most potential beneficiaries - there are serious health risks associated with the practice. Staying in the water for too long brings the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. There is also some evidence to suggest that cold water immersion can have negative effects on muscle growth and performance.
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