Waking up bleary eyed, the bed so warm and comforting, and the only thought: how can I stay here? But you persist, you get yourself up because what awaits is the mad combination of ice cold and red hot. How else can we describe the feeling of wading into the sea or lowering yourself into cold water when your skin is steaming? Or the feeling of stepping into wood fired heat after being immersed in an ocean of cold? There’s a reason why sauna culture and cold water dipping has become so popular. There are saunas popping up all over the country (our five favourites are here), both conveniently located by the sea or at least with a cold water bucket to pour over your head. If you needed some convincing on the benefits of the hot and cold life, we’ve gathered some facts for you.
Some like it hot:
- Improved circulation: Heat causes blood vessels to dilate, enhancing blood flow and delivering oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles and tissues.
- Stress reduction: Saunas activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping you unwind and shift into a state of calm.
- Heart health: Studies have shown that consistent sauna use may lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Mentally, the warmth of the sauna offers a meditative space, where the noise of the world drops away and we return to ourselves.
The surprisingly delightful cold shock:
- Boosted immunity: Cold exposure stimulates the production of white blood cells and strengthens the immune response.
- Reduced inflammation: Cold helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, which is why athletes swear by ice baths for recovery.
- Improved mood: Cold water stimulates norepinephrine and endorphins – neuro-chemicals that elevate mood, focus, and resilience.
- Increased energy: The shock of cold can jolt the nervous system into alertness, leaving you feeling clear and energised for hours.
Why doing it together works:
- Lymphatic drainage: The push-pull of heat and cold stimulates lymph flow, supporting the body’s natural detox process.
- Faster recovery: Muscles recover more efficiently thanks to improved circulation and reduced inflammation.
- Nervous system reset: Alternating temperatures trains your body to adapt to stress, boosting resilience and balance in everyday life.
Whether it’s a wood-fired sauna and a wild lake or a warm shower and a cold splash, this ritual can be adapted to your lifestyle. The goal is not perfection, but consistency; carving out moments that help you feel strong, calm, and present.
And when you’re done, enjoy a hot Mother Root to keep the good feelings flowing.
