Psychology of Sauna and Cold Water Immersion: How Can You Improve Your Wellbeing?
1. ENDORPHINS: BOOSTING HAPPINESS NATURALLY
One of the primary psychological benefits of sauna sessions is the release of endorphins. Often referred to as the "feel-good" hormones, endorphins are neurotransmitters that promote feelings of euphoria and reduce perceptions of pain. When you subject your body to heat or cold, the stress triggers endorphin release, leading to a heightened sense of well-being. This endorphin boost can result in an elevated mood, leaving you feeling happier, more energised, and emotionally balanced after a session.
2. CORTISOL REGULATION: MANAGING STRESS
Cortisol is the body's main stress hormone, and while it's essential for survival, chronic elevation can lead to anxiety, depression, and other health issues. Both saunas and cold water immersion have been shown to lower cortisol levels, promoting stress relief and relaxation. Regular exposure to these techniques can improve your body's ability to regulate cortisol, helping you manage stress more effectively over time.
3. ANXIETY REDUCTION:
CULTIVATING CALM
Sauna use and cold water immersion offer natural ways to reduce anxiety. The intense heat of the sauna promotes relaxation by soothing the nervous system and encouraging deep breathing. Cold water immersion, while initially shocking, forces the body to engage in mindful breathing and focus on the present moment. This combination of deep relaxation and mindful awareness creates a calming effect that can reduce anxious thoughts and foster a sense of tranquillity.
4. MINDFULNESS: LIVING IN THE PRESENT
Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present in the moment, is a key element of both sauna and cold immersion therapies. In a sauna, the heat can draw your focus away from racing thoughts and into your body, encouraging mindful awareness. Cold water immersion demands mental focus as your body responds to the temperature shock, allowing you to practise mindfulness by concentrating on the present. Over time, this enhances your ability to remain focused and calm, even in stressful situations.
