You may be familiar with the benefits of sauna use, but did you know that cold exposure also has measurable health benefits? Some physical benefits include muscle recovery post-workout, reduced inflammation, and improved immune system. Cold exposure also benefits our mood and cognition. Cold exposure triggers the release of norepinephrine which is a neurotransmitter “involved in vigilance, focus, attention, and mood. Generally, lower norepinephrine activity is associated with inattention, decreased focus and cognitive ability, low energy, and poor mood.” According to Dr. Rhonda Patrick, studies have shown that “After adults who had been diagnosed with depression underwent ten cryotherapy sessions, they showed marked reductions in their depressive symptoms and improved quality of life, mood, and disease acceptance.” This is important because this could be an accessible, non-pharmaceutical treatment option for people who suffer from depression. [1] 

Read more about cold therapy in our article “Loving Your Inner Polar Bear: The Health Benefits of Cold Temperature Exposure”  

[1] https://www.foundmyfitness.com/topics/cold-exposure-therapy