Contrast therapy, a wellness practice that alternates between cold and hot treatments, has been used for centuries to promote health and recovery. Traditionally, this involves alternating with a cold plunge and a traditional sauna.
However, at Restore Hyper Wellness, we've elevated this practice by providing the science-backed benefits of Whole Body Cryotherapy with the advanced technology of Infrared Saunas to communities nationwide. This combination offers a more efficient and powerful experience, maximizing the benefits of both therapies that rely on the power of cold and heat.
What is Contrast Therapy?
Contrast therapy involves subjecting the body to alternating cold and heat exposures. This practice is known to enhance circulation, reduce muscle soreness and boost overall recovery. At Restore Hyper Wellness, our contrast therapy protocol is designed to optimize these benefits by first using Whole Body Cryotherapy before Infrared Sauna.
Why Use Whole Body Cryotherapy Instead of a Cold Plunge?
Whole Body Cryotherapy is a modern and highly effective alternative to the traditional cold plunge. While a cold plunge might expose the body to temperatures as low as 50°F, Whole Body Cryotherapy subjects the body to temperatures as low as -166* F for 2-3 minutes. This extreme cold exposure triggers a powerful physiological response, leading to the following benefits:
- Enhanced Recovery: The sub-zero temperature reduces inflammation, decreases muscle soreness and accelerates recovery from exercise or injury.
- Boosted Endorphins: This cold therapy stimulates the release of endorphins, which can improve mood and increase energy levels.
- Improved Circulation: Cryotherapy causes blood vessels to constrict and then dilate upon exiting the chamber, improving circulation and delivering oxygen-rich blood to muscles and tissues.
Infrared Sauna
Infrared Saunas offer a more advanced approach to heat therapy compared to traditional saunas. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air around you, Infrared Saunas use infrared light to penetrate the skin and heat the body directly. This method provides deeper and more efficient detoxification, relaxation and healing.
- Detoxification: Infrared heat penetrates deep into the tissues, helping to eliminate toxins and heavy metals more effectively than traditional saunas.
- Pain Relief: The deep penetration of infrared heat increases circulation and relaxes muscles, providing relief from chronic pain and stiffness.
- Enhanced Relaxation: Infrared Saunas promote relaxation by lowering cortisol levels and improving overall mood.
Contrast Therapy at Restore Hyper Wellness
At Restore, we recommend starting with Whole Body Cryotherapy followed by an Infrared Sauna session. This sequence is crucial because Cryotherapy requires the skin to be completely dry before entering the chamber. Any moisture on the skin could cause frostbite due to the extremely low temperatures.
The Protocol:
- Whole Body Cryotherapy: Spend 2-3 minutes in the Cryotherapy chamber. This short burst of intense cold triggers a cascade of physiological responses, including reduced inflammation and improved circulation.
- Infrared Sauna: After your Cryotherapy session, relax in the Infrared Sauna for 30-45 minutes. The gentle heat will penetrate deep into your tissues, promoting detoxification, relaxation and pain relief.
Experience the Superior Benefits
Our advanced approach to contrast therapy at Restore using Whole Body Cryotherapy and Infrared Saunas offers a powerful way to enhance your recovery, boost your energy and support your overall wellness. Whether you're an athlete looking to improve performance or simply seeking to optimize your health, our contrast therapy protocol is designed to deliver maximum benefits.
Book your appointments at your nearest studio location to experience the superior benefits of contrast therapy.
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