Sea, Sauna and Safety

Combining a sauna session with a dip in the ice cold sea, often called "contrast therapy," can offer a range of potential benefits and drawbacks. Here's a breakdown of some of these

Benefits

• Boosts circulation and cardiovascular health: The rapid transition from hot to cold stimulates blood flow throughout your body, which can improve circulation and heart health.

• Reduces stress and inflammation: The sauna’s heat relaxes muscles and eases tension, while the cold plunge activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of calm and reducing inflammation.

• Improves immune function: Both saunas and cold exposure can stimulate the immune system, potentially increasing your resistance to illness.

• Increases alertness and energy: The shock of the cold water can leave you feeling invigorated and energized, while the sauna can promote deeper sleep afterwards.

• Pain relief: Cold exposure can numb pain and reduce inflammation, potentially offering relief for chronic pain conditions.

• Mood enhancement: Both sauna and cold exposure can trigger the release of endorphins, promoting a positive mood.

Photo by Glib Albovsky on Unsplash

Drawbacks

• Can be dangerous for certain individuals: People with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or pregnant women should avoid contrast therapy without medical supervision.

• Uncomfortable and potentially risky: The extreme temperature changes can be unpleasant and even dangerous for some people, especially if they experience dizziness, fainting, or difficulty breathing.

• Not universally enjoyable: Many people find the cold plunge shocking and unpleasant, even after acclimatizing.

• Logistical challenges: Finding access to both a sauna and a suitable spot for a cold plunge can be difficult, especially if you live in a colder climate.

• Time commitment: The entire process takes a significant amount of time, including sauna time, the plunge, and recovery.

• Can aggravate skin problems such as Rosacea

Additional considerations:

Start slow and listen to your body: Begin with short sauna sessions and cold plunges, gradually increasing the duration as you become acclimated. Pay attention to how you feel and stop if you experience any discomfort.

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after both the sauna and cold plunge to prevent dehydration.

Warm up and cool down gradually: Don't rush from the sauna straight into the cold water. Take a few minutes to cool down outside the sauna first. Similarly, after the cold plunge, warm up gradually before jumping back into the sauna.

Consult a doctor if you have any concerns: If you have any underlying health conditions, it's best to consult your doctor before trying contrast therapy.

Consider the idea of the cold plunge first

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to try sauna followed by a dip in the ice cold sea is a personal one. Weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks carefully and consult a doctor if you have any concerns. If you do decide to try it, start slowly and listen to your body.

Photo by Colin Yen on Unsplash

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