Cold Therapy Benefits & Protocols

From cold showers to ice baths: timing, duration, and safety for inflammation reduction.

Illustration of cold therapy
Deliberate cold exposure can be a powerful tool for physical and mental resilience.

The Science of Cold Exposure

Cold therapy, or cryotherapy, involves exposing the body to cold temperatures to trigger beneficial physiological responses, including reduced inflammation and improved mood.

  • Inflammation Control: Cold constricts blood vessels, helping to reduce swelling and muscle soreness after exercise.
  • Dopamine Boost: Even short exposures can significantly increase norepinephrine and dopamine levels.
  • Metabolic Health: Cold exposure may activate brown adipose tissue (brown fat), which burns calories to generate heat.

Safety First

Always start slow. Begin with 30 seconds of cold water at the end of your shower before attempting full ice baths.

"The cold is a mirror; it shows you your own strength and capacity for stillness under pressure."

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