Hot-Cold Therapy Benefits

Most of us are aware that hot baths/showers relieve muscle tension and help us fall asleep faster; however they do a lot more for our health: improve blood flow, allow slower and deeper breathing, and a recent study shows that they also lower blood sugar, therefore reducing type 2 diabetes risk.

Similarly, cold water offers health benefits:
Improves circulation, reduces muscle ache after workouts, relieves stress and depression by increasing endorphins. Research also shows that it helps with weight loss, possibly by increasing metabolism, and most importantly by stimulating endorphins it gives an immune boost and increase our resistance to colds and flus.

However, the highest benefits come from hot-cold therapy. No wonder, Romans finished their hot soak with a cold plunge; and similarly now Finns and Swedes do the same. I have been trying this for a few months now and thanks to Corona this year, I have discovered the joys of swimming in the English sea. I absolutely love it... yes it is cold but I feel so good afterwards, completely rejuvenated!

Of course, make sure that you start slow with cold water. End your hot baths/showers with cool water, gradually reducing the temperature.. slow goes a long way. Maybe this is not for everyone but I highly recommend it; just try and see what it does for you!