Contrast Therapy

 

Our Contrast Therapy is blend of sauna, ice bath, and breath work designed for full body revitalization— utilizing the benefits of heat in the sauna, combined with the invigorating process of an ice bath and the composure of intentional breathing.

Your veins go from constriction in the cold, to dilation in the heat — getting your body pumping new blood to all areas, and flushing out metabolic waste in the process.

Not only does exposure to the extreme heat and extreme cold produce an extended cardiovascular workout, but under the duress your body reduces lactic acid buildup in muscles, while releasing a variety of growth hormones and proteins.

To best manage the intensity of this exchange, for your first visit, we will walk you through a down-regulating breathing process — intentionally shifting your nervous system from fight or flight mode (sympathetic) to a relaxed and energy saving state (parasympathetic). This technique is encouraged to be used in the processes of both Fire and Ice, as it positively regulates your body’s physical, physiological, psychological responses to the high heat and low cold.

Instructions for Contrast Therapy

Rinse off. Put on athletic wear. Breathe. Enter the tub for 3 minutes. Breathe. Move to fire (sauna) for 15 minutes. Breathe. Alternate between the two for the duration of your session. Rinse off. Head home or try another therapy we offer to boost your recovery. The choice is yours.

Tips to get the most out of your Contrast Therapy

  • Before every session – set your intention

  • Drink lots of water before and after your session

  • Work towards getting your breath to 5 – 8 breaths per minute during your Cold Plunge session

  • Bring a journal to record any insights, clarity, or impressions after your experience

  • You may use the Meditation Room at Flote as long as you’d like after your session

Contrast Therapy (Hot/Cold) Benefits

  • Improved blood flow and lymphatic circulation by alternating between vasodilation (hot) and vasoconstriction (cold) of the blood vessels. This process also reduces inflammation and alleviates pain.

  • Exposure to extreme temperatures triggers the production of heat shock and cold shock proteins, which repair damaged proteins and cells, improve immune system response, speed up muscle recovery, and reduce fatigue.

  • The cold shock response has a protective effect on the brain and may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

    • Regular cold immersions have been shown to boost metabolism, supporting healthy weight management.

  • Cold plunging is also essentially a workout for your nervous system, as you utilize the breath to relax the body and build resiliency to the stress and sensation of the cold.

Contrast Therapy Pricing

15 Minute Contrast Therapy $30

30 Minute Contrast Therapy $45

45 Minute Contrast Therapy $60

Additional Person $20 (The room is limited to 2 people maximum)

**We offer monthly Wim Hof workshops with certified instructor, Mike Gass! For more information on upcoming workshops at Flote with Mike & information on the Wim Hof Method Click here!