My First Ice Bath Experience: a chilly adventure with big benefits!
Taking my first ice bath with Baridi Baths and my work mates at Performance Medicine was an unforgettable experience! 🧊 Despite some initial nervousness (cold feet and hands are my norm), I managed a total of 10 minutes, at about 8 degrees with two shorter immersions of 26 seconds and 30 seconds in between.
What helped me conquer the cold? Breathwork. The practices I’ve learned, especially from @thebreathworkbreddah and incorporating the Wim Hof Breathing Method for just 6 minutes each morning, made all the difference. Focusing on my breath and slowing my heart rate transformed what could have been overwhelming into a calm, focused experience.
And let’s not forget the best part—sunbathing afterward! It was the perfect way to warm up and reflect on this chilly accomplishment.
My First Ice Bath Experience: a chilly adventure with big benefits!
Ice baths, or cold water immersion, aren’t just trendy—they come with a host of health and performance benefits. Here’s what the latest growing research highlights:
- Reduces Muscle Soreness and Inflammation
Systematic reviews show that ice baths can decrease delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) by reducing inflammation after intense physical activity. - Improves Recovery Time
Cold immersion helps flush metabolic waste and increase circulation, speeding up recovery for athletes and active individuals. - Boosts Mental Resilience
Studies suggest that regular exposure to cold water can enhance mental toughness and improve your ability to handle stress by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. - Enhances Circulation and Cardiovascular Health
Alternating between cold and warm conditions can improve blood flow, strengthen capillaries, and benefit overall cardiovascular health. - May Improve Mood and Reduce Stress
Cold exposure has been linked to increased levels of endorphins and norepinephrine, which can improve mood and lower stress. - Strengthens the Immune System
Research indicates that regular cold exposure may increase white blood cell count, potentially boosting immune function over time.
My Takeaway
Ice baths are as much a mental challenge as they are physical, and I’m excited to build tolerance for colder temperatures and longer holds. Whether you’re an athlete or just curious about trying something new, I highly recommend incorporating cold exposure into your routine-starting small and working up as you go!
Are you ready to take the plunge? Let me know if you’ve tried an ice bath or are considering it!
If you’d like to book an ice bath session at Performance Medicine, reach out to the team @performance_kenya on +254724007200
