Traditional Finnish sauna culture often involves alternating between a hot sauna and a cooling shower or a cold shower. This practice is called cold-hot therapy, and its popularity is explained by its diverse well-being effects – for both body and mind. Social media shows that many top athletes favor this method, especially as part of recovery and honing their bodies to peak condition. But what are the benefits of this alternation, and why is it worth making it part of your own sauna routine?
What does hot-cold therapy mean?
Cold-hot therapy means alternating heat and cold, for example between a sauna and a cold shower. The treatment is based on activating blood circulation, balancing the nervous system and supporting the body's own recovery ability through various methods. This type of temperature variation has been used for centuries as part of folk healing and is now also used in the recovery of top athletes.
1. Improves blood circulation and metabolism
The heat of the sauna dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow . When the body is suddenly exposed to cold, the blood vessels constrict. This "vascular workout" improves blood circulation and can help remove waste products from the body. Regular alternating between hot and cold can also support lymph circulation and reduce fluid retention in human tissues.
2. Speeds up muscle recovery
Many athletes use hot and cold therapy to relieve muscle tension and strain. Heat relaxes and eases muscle pain, while cold reduces inflammation and swelling. The variation helps the body recover faster and relieves muscle tightness.
3. Strengthens immunity
Alternating exposure to cold and heat acts as a natural stimulus for the body, stimulating the immune system. Many people find that regular sauna use and exposure to cold reduce their chances of getting sick, although scientific research on the subject is still in its infancy. The popularity of open-water swimming is also based on health benefits, which are strongly linked to cold-hot therapy.
4. Supports stress relief and sleep quality
The heat of a sauna is known to calm, and the cold to awaken – this alternation can help balance the nervous system, reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Many people experience a deep sense of relaxation after a sauna and cold exposure, which can help them fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.
5. Refreshes the skin and is good for breathing
Sweating in the heat cleanses the pores, and the cold closes them again. The end result can be a cleaner and firmer skin. When combined with the treatment with Sauna Menthol , the effect also extends to the respiratory tract – the fresh menthol opens the breath and refreshes the mind.
Menthol sauna ice as part of the treatment
Sauna Menthol's natural and effective Sauna Menthol sauna ice makes cold-hot treatment even more enjoyable. The cooling effect of menthol is felt on the skin and in the respiratory tract, and it is ideal for use in conjunction with sauna bathing before or after exposure to cold. The product is used by simply adding a small amount of sauna ice crystals to the sauna water. The end result is a fresh and refreshing sauna experience. Compared to traditional sauna scents, menthol crystals are comparatively very strong and effective. Just a few menthol crystals are enough to create an exceptionally fresh, refreshing and cooling feeling in the sauna.
How to start hot-cold therapy
- Start with a sauna – warm up for 10–15 minutes to activate your body and blood circulation.
- Go cold – take a cold shower or dip outside or in an open area.
- Return to the sauna – warm up again and repeat the treatment cycle as needed.
- Use Sauna Menthol – refresh the experience with the freshness of menthol. Effectively opens the airways.
Summary
Hot-cold therapy is an easy and effective way to support the well-being of the body and mind. It is a perfect part of the sauna tradition and works perfectly in combination with Sauna Menthol sauna ice. Whether you are relaxing or recovering from a workout, this combination offers a natural and refreshing way to take care of yourself.
Discover Sauna Menthol sauna fragrance here.