This week we launched CONTRAST, our Sauna and Cold Plunge recovery suite. This ancient practice, now backed by modern scientific insights, offers more than just physical recovery. Harnessing heat & cold is a holistic practice, benefiting the mental, the physical and your social health.
PHYSICAL
Muscle Recovery
The heat from saunas dilates blood vessels, improving circulation and delivering oxygen to tired muscles. The immediate cold immersion then constricts vessels, reducing swelling and easing inflammation & soreness.
Circulation
Alternating between hot and cold stimulates blood flow, enhancing cardiovascular function and mimicking the effect of light exercise (not an excuse to skip cardio just saying).
Enhanced Immune Function and Detoxification
Regular use of saunas boosts white blood cell counts, supporting the body’s natural defence system.
MENTAL
Adapting to Discomfort
Switching between hot and cold extremes teaches the body to tolerate sudden changes, helping individuals better manage physical and psychological stress.
Adrenaline, Endorphin & Dopamine Boost
Cold exposure activates the body’s “fight or flight” response, triggering an adrenaline surge. This increases alertness, sharpens focus, boosts physical energy, and builds stress tolerance over time.
There is also a surge of dopamine, which can increase by up to 250%, with effects lasting several hours. This elevates mood, reduces anxiety, enhances motivation, and builds resilience.
Community
Sharing the experience of alternating between heat and cold creates unique opportunities for social connection and shared resilience. Sauna chats hit different!
Starting with 10-15 minutes in the sauna followed by 30s – 2 minute cold plunge will result in immediate benefits. Repeating this cycle weekly & forming a habit is where the compounding therapeutic benefits kick in.
