Ice baths can improve circulation by constricting blood vessels, which reduces inflammation and swelling. The constriction of blood vessels can also lead to increased blood flow and oxygenation of tissue.

Ice baths can help reduce muscle soreness and promote faster recovery after exercise by reducing inflammation and swelling. This reduction of inflammation has been shown to alleviate symptoms of both chronic and acute pain.

Ice baths can increase metabolism by activating the sympathetic nervous system, this can lead to an increase in calorie burning. By forcing your body to warm up naturally, you activate your brown fat (your body’s heat cells) to keep your core temperature up.

Cold water immersion triggers your body to release adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine and serotonin. This promotes increased focus and determination as well as happiness and fulfilment. It
also helps to reduce chronic inflammation (which is linked to depression). This results in overall mental balance. Feel good in good times and better in bad times.

Cold water stimulates the vagus verve, lowering heart rate and potentially reducing stress. The shock of cold water can help individuals develop a greater ability to handle stress and adversity. It also helps to shift your body from a stressed (sympathetic) state to a relaxed (parasympathetic) state, promoting rest and recovery.

Ice baths can have a positive effect on the central nervous system, helping to regulate your body for better sleep. Better sleep leads to improved recovery and performance. If you want better sleep, try ice baths in the late afternoon or evening. Sleeping cold can support production and improved efficiency of brown fat which benefits your metabolism.