The benefits of contrast therapy

It’s a great wellness ritual; a hot steamy sauna, followed by a blast of cold water. The combo is known as contrast therapy. The Scandinavians have been doing it for yonks. And so, with our newly installed cold-water bucket shower, we thought we’d do some digging into the benefits of hot/cold water therapy. Here’s what we found…

Boost energy levels

The transition from a hot sauna to a cold temperature, according to research, causes your heart rate to increase. It seems the body reacts by constricting blood vessels and sending a sudden rush of adrenaline and endorphins. That causes the beautifully refreshing feeling you experience when doused with cold water, along with a sharpened focus.

Increased circulation

Switching between hot and cold temperatures can stimulate blood flow; moving from heat which causes blood vessels to dilate, to the cold plunge causing them to restrict, could enhance overall circulation.

Enhance immune function

Research has found elevated body temperature can help certain types of immune cells function better. The cold bucket shower helps you to feel refreshed, and ultimately better enjoy and reap the benefits from the hot sauna.

Muscle repair

We know saunas can help relax muscles and relieve tension. The cold plunge then offers the benefit of helping to reduce muscle inflammation and soreness. Combining the two just makes sense.

Reduce stress

Both saunas and cold plunges have been linked to stress reduction, with saunas increasing endorphins and the shock of cold water helping to trigger stress-reducing hormones.

Better sleep

After your sauna, and your splash of cold, your body goes into a super relaxed state. You feel calm, centred and a bit floaty. You feel warm for the evening, and then sleep ever so well.

So far, the feedback from all guests has been amazing. Using the bucket shower in-between saunas and at the end of your sauna session makes you feel alive. Doing it surrounded by our wildflower meadow is something really special. Go on, give it a go!

Cold water bucket shower at Knowle Meadow Camping