What is a Cold Plunge?
Many sauna enthusiasts enjoy a cold dip in the lake or the pool after a good sweat in the sauna. What is the deal with this, and what are the benefits of taking a cold plunge between sauna sessions? The cold plunge is meant to help cool the body off between sessions. The shock of extreme temperatures can also help boost the immune system, by giving a bit of an extra workout. Here is a good article on the benefits of taking a cold plunge after a sauna. Typically the sauna should be done first, with the cold plunge between or after the sauna. The extreme temperatures are safe for most bathers, provided there are no existing cardiovascular issues. As always, consult with a physician if there are any health concerns. Filling a cold plunge tub with ice, or using a water chiller, can replicate the feeling of rolling in the snow after a good sweat.
Swimming in the Ocean – a Finnish Tradition
Finland is often credited with popularizing the cold plunge practices. In fact, the Finnish tourism board recommends “jumping through a small hole in the ice on a lake, the sea and refresh yourself in the freezing water – or roll in the snow instead.” This is reflected in the word “Sisu”, which does not have a direct translation but refers to “Resilience, Courage, and Grit, as described by Finnmark. There are many tourists who travel to Finland just to experience the traditional sauna ritual, including this story from travel bloggers. You can replicate the traditional sauna experience by taking a nice cold plunge after a sweat.
What about the Sauna Hats?
A popular accessory is the sauna hat. These tend to keep your hair from getting too hot or too cold in the sauna. Typically made from wool, they can also be used in the cold plunge afterwards, to keep your hair from freezing in winter temperatures. These sauna hats are also a great part of a hot tub routine, and let you use the hot tub in the middle of winter! Many sauna hats range from simple and functional to elaborate and silly. There are really no end to the options available! Perhaps a sauna hat is the perfect accessory for a dip in the lake after the sauna.
