The Benefits of Hot and Cold Therapy

What is hot and cold therapy, and how can it benefit me? Well, let’s talk about it!

This is one of my favourite forms of therapies… it helps me to relax, de stress and feel so much lighter mentally and physically.

WHAT IS HOT AND COLD THERAPY?

Hot and cold therapy, also known as contrast therapy may be performed in many different forms all around the face & body, providing many benefits. When our body is introduced to heat, our blood vessels will dilate and in contrast when there is cold, our blood vessels will then constrict. This rapid change of temperatures has a a great effect on the body's heart rate and circulatory system.

Hot Therapy Benefits: Relieves tiredness, relaxes muscles, removes toxins, improves sleep and reduces anxiety and depression.

Cold Therapy Benefits: Energizes your body, improves focus, tightens skin, improves circulation and mood.

WHAT DOES THIS DO FOR THE BODY?

This combination therapy is great for managing stress levels, anxiety and depression, which correlate with your overall skin function. Starting with the cold portion of this therapy, it is activating your vagus nerve which is responsible for calming the body down and activating the parasympathetic nervous system - your “rest and digest'' nervous system. Overtime, this will allow the body to relax more quickly after stress as well as aid in healthy digestion. Now hot therapy works to increases blood flow, relieve muscle tension and provides accelerated healing and recovery. This therapy also aids in helping with sore muscles, injuries and/or pain, helps deepen sleep, may boost the immune system and improve anxiety/stress. 

HOW CAN THIS BE BENEFICIAL FOR THE SKIN?

In our facial treatments, we always combine hot and cold therapy as it is a great way to promote circulation and aid in healthy recovery, no matter what we are treating. Stimulating oxygen in the blood will kill off p.acne bacteria, speed up the process of wound healing, brighten and plump the skin. When there is an increase in the movement of blood flow, the lymphatic system will also begin to move steadily and release any stagnant lymphatic toxins, containing bacteria. In return the lymph will bring nutrients and minerals, aiding in healthy, nourished and happy skin.  

HOW CAN YOU DO HOT AND COLD THERAPY AT HOME?

There are many ways hot and cold therapy can be performed at home, and I’m here to tell you how! When ending your shower turn the cold water on for a few seconds, slowly building your way up to a few minutes. Use an ice roller, ice globes or an ice cube wrapped in a cloth around the face, neck and chest. Invest in a portable at home sauna (I have one, and it’s the best investment I’ve ever made). Add boiling water to a bowl, place your head above this water with a towel above to act as a steamer.

We speak a lot about self love within our practice, and this practice not only helps your skin, but your mind-gut-skin connection as a whole.

“How you love yourself is how you teach others to love you.”

Rupi Kaur