The Top 3 Benefits of Cold Plunging (in Alpine Lakes)

While the idea of endearing a cold plunge has taken the internet by storm over the last few years, I’m here to tell you this idea is staying and for good reason.

My Backstory to Cold Plunging:

I was first introduced to the briefest idea of “cold plunging” before it was really a trend. We were out in the van, with no water heater (yet) for our shower and we didn’t know how long our water tanks would last us. Andrew (my husband), got a wild hair while we were in Glacier National Park at the beginning of our journey to go in as many cold waters as we came across during our van travels… I was NOT on board then but as showers started to become fewer and farther between, I came to realize that rinsing off in whatever clean water we could find not only resulted in feeling cleaner but that once I got out, I would feel rejuvenated. There would be an energy going about my body that I loved but couldn’t explain. This then became a challenge to find the coldest water we could find and jump in.

Little did I know that beyond the beauty and backdrop these icy waters often held, there was a unique opportunity to benefit my body and mind with each plunge in the water.

While the prospect of immersing yourself in frigid temperatures might seem like a terrible idea, the benefits of cold therapy (especially in an alpine lake where you are at the mercy of nature’s own temperature) are not to be overlooked. So, let’s dive into the top three advantages of embracing the chill with both cold plunge tubs or buckets that are popping up in a gym or spa near you, and also in the pristine waters of the outdoors.

Top Three Benefits of Cold Therapy:

1. Enhanced Circulation and Immune Boost:

Enhanced Circulation

The shock of cold water against your skin triggers an immediate physiological response, kickstarting your body’s natural defenses. As you take the plunge, your blood vessels constrict in response to the cold. This reaction serves to redirect blood flow toward your vital organs, stimulating circulation and increasing the efficiency of your cardiovascular system.

Immune Boost

Regular cold plunges can also give your immune system a great boost. The brief exposure to cold water tells your body to produce more white blood cells, which play a pivotal role in protecting against infections and illnesses. Over time, this immune-boosting effect can contribute to a stronger and more resilient immune system, helping you stay healthy during seasonal changes and environmental challenges.

2. Natural Stress Relief and Mood Enhancement:

Natural Stress Relief

The tranquil surroundings of an alpine lake provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding and destressing. But really, cold plunging in general triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as the body’s “feel-good” hormones. These endorphins create a sense of euphoria and relaxation, effectively alleviating stress and anxiety, but also fostering a heightened sense of mental clarity and focus and promoting a positive mood. I call that a win-win-win!

Natural Mood Enhancement

Cold exposure has also been linked to increased levels of a neurotransmitter in your brain that helps improve focus, attention, and overall mental clarity. As you emerge from the icy embrace of the alpine lake or cold tub, you may find yourself feeling not only physically revitalized but mentally invigorated as well.

Over time, regular exposure to cold water immersion can contribute to improved stress resilience, enhanced emotional well-being, and an overall positive outlook on life.

3. Enhanced Recovery and Pain Management:

Enhanced Recovery

For those who lead active lifestyles, cold plunging offers a natural and effective recovery method. The cold water’s constricting effect on blood vessels aids in reducing inflammation and muscle soreness. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often use cold water immersion as a part of their recovery routine to accelerate healing and minimize post-workout discomfort. This I can attest to time and again as we’ve plunged in after a hike to only emerge with energized legs and backs, but also plunged after a hard workout to feel the same benefits for hours later.

Pain Management

Suffering from any chronic pain conditions? Beyond soothing sore muscles, cold plunging can also alleviate chronic pain such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. This is done as the cold water’s impact on nerve conduction can temporarily disrupt pain signals, which in turn can provide relief to individuals dealing with these chronic symptoms.

Bonus Benefit – Accomplishing a Challenge

Accomplishing something challenging, such as submerging yourself in cold water, embodies a powerful journey of self-discovery and growth. Pushing through the initial discomfort and fear taps into your inner reservoir of courage and determination. It’s a testament to your ability to embrace discomfort and conquer obstacles, which in turn highlights your capacity to overcome both physical and mental barriers. This accomplishment not only leaves you with a sense of achievement (woohoo!) but also cultivates a newfound confidence that goes beyond the specific challenge itself, empowering you to face other daunting tasks with a more adaptable spirit and unwavering belief in your capabilities.

As you can tell, cold plunging really offers a real trifecta of benefits: improved circulation and immune function, natural stress relief and mood enhancement, and enhanced recovery and pain management. Moreover, it also faces you with a challenge you are able to come out the other side of. Doing this in either a tub or the awe-inspiring beauty of a lake setting coupled with the transformative effects of cold water immersion, creates a holistic experience that rejuvenates both body and mind. So, the next time you find yourself standing at the edge of a lake or have the opportunity to book a cold therapy session at your local gym or spa, I highly advise you take the plunge and embrace the chill – your body and soul will thank you for it!

The Best Way to Survive a Cold Therapy Session:

Breath. Really, that’s all you need to endure a session in frigid water temps. Our body’s initial reaction when we drastically change our temperature is shock and loss of breath. This will cause your body to panic and go into flight-or-fight mode, which is the opposite reaction we are hoping for with cold therapy. So submerge your body (preferably past your shoulders) and slow your breath down. Try a count of inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 2 seconds, and exhaling for 6 seconds. This count will not only help slow down your heart rate but also give you something to focus on while your body adjusts to the temperature.