The process of cooling and then rewarming after an ice plunge can act like a pump to boost blood circulation. This circulatory boost is important for clearing out waste and providing tissues with the oxygen and nutrition they need to function optimally.
When you’re immersed in cold water, blood vessels in your extremities constrict and draw blood toward your core; but when you get out, your body warms, vessels expand or dilate, and blood is pushed back through the body.
Research suggests cold water immersion doesn’t just enhance circulation immediately post plunge, but that when done regularly, it may lead to microvascular adaptations that further enhance circulation over time. Ihsan, M., Watson, G., Choo, HC., Govus, A., Cocking, S., Stanley, J., Abbiss, C., (2020) ‘Skeletal Muscle Microvascular Adaptations Following Regular Cold Water Immersion.’ Int J Sports Med, 41(02). pp. 98-105.
We hold our Sauna & Ice Sessions in the PEP Longevity Lab in a posh garage in One Loudoun, Ashburn. Please text or email for address/directions..