What is the Hype about Plunging?
- DRBrooksRN
- Sep 8, 2025
- 4 min read
The Chilly Truth: Why Cold Plunging is the New Hot Thing
Ah, cold plunging! The latest trend that has everyone from fitness enthusiasts to Instagram influencers shivering with excitement. If you’ve been living under a rock—or perhaps just avoiding the icy waters—let’s dive into the frosty phenomenon that has everyone buzzing (and chattering their teeth)!
What’s the Deal with Cold Plunging?
Cold plunging, or cold water immersion, involves submerging your body in icy water for a short period. Think of it as a polar bear dip, minus the fur and the fish. The hype around cold plunging claims it can boost your mood, enhance recovery, and even improve your overall health. But is it all just a frosty façade, or does it actually hold water (pun intended)?
Who Benefits from Cold Plunging?
Not everyone will find joy in the brisk embrace of cold water, but here are the brave souls who might just benefit:
Athletes: If you’ve just finished a marathon or a grueling workout, a cold plunge can help reduce muscle soreness and inflammation. Just remember, it’s not a magic potion—no one’s winning a gold medal for sitting in an ice bath!
Stress Balls: Feeling overwhelmed? Cold plunging has been shown to reduce stress levels. Just picture yourself in that icy water, screaming “I’m fine!” while your body goes into shock. Instant therapy!
Health Nuts: If you’re into boosting your immune system and metabolism, cold plunging might just be your new best friend. It’s like giving your body a wake-up call—“Hello, immune system! Time to get to work!”
Who Should Think Twice Before Taking the Plunge?
Now, before you jump into the nearest ice-cold lake, let’s talk about who might want to stay on the warm side of the pool:
Heart Patients: Check with your cardiologist. It may be best to avoid the icy waters. Cold plunging can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which isn’t ideal for everyone.
Those with Cold Sensitivity: If you shiver at the thought of a chilly breeze, you might want to skip the plunge. There’s no shame in enjoying a warm bath instead!
Pregnant Individuals: While we applaud your adventurous spirit, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking a dip in icy waters.
The Icy Conclusion
Cold plunging may not be for everyone, but it certainly has its fans! Whether you’re looking to boost recovery, reduce stress, or just feel like a Viking warrior, it’s worth considering. Just remember, if you do take the plunge, make sure to have a warm towel and a cozy blanket waiting for you on the other side. So, are you ready to embrace the chill? Or will you stick to the warmth of your favorite cozy blanket? Either way, there’s no wrong choice—unless you forget to bring a towel. Then you might just find yourself in a frosty pickle! Not, really, we set you up with some pretty nice spa towels.
My personal recommendations for plunging: If you have never tried it, there is no need to be a warrior right from the start. Start slow and build up. Start with a 1 minute plunge at the end of a nice visit to our infrared sauna. When you register with us, you will be asked about the temperature. I recommend for first timers to request the highest temperature to start. I have a Regen commercial tub and it has a circulator which will affect your body's ability to build up a warmth barrier. Build up your time and drop the temperature gradually over your visits.
We have a monthly unlimited rate, a cold-plunge only package, and individual visit pricing to help make this available to all. So check us out and before you know it, you will be telling me to DROP THE ICE!
I wanted to include some Cold Plunge Protocols:
Beginner's Protocol:
Set your timer and slowly enter the cold plunge tub with the goal to gently submerge your body for at least 30 seconds. This seems like a short period of time, but it will probably seem like several minutes when you are in there.
Use some deep breathing techniques to help control your reaction to the cold water.
At the end of 30 seconds, or when you are ready, SLOWLY get out of the tub.
After 13-30 seconds, get back in the tub slowly and try to stay submerged longer, up to 1-2 minutes.
Attempt 3 plunges, increasing your time each try allowing your body to begin to adapt to the cold temperature.
If at any time you feel discomfort or pain, please discontinue the plunge.
A cold plunge only appointment is 20 minutes so you can get in the three attempts and have plenty of time for changing and drying off.
In the beginning, it is perfectly fine if your arms and hands are holding the side of the tub and as you become more adapted to the cold temperature, you can begin to submerge them as well with the rest of your body.
Experienced Plunger Protocol:
Submerge up to your neck for 3 to 5 minutes using deep breathing to relax your body.
Exit the tub slowly.
This can be the end of your plunge, or you can go back a second time.
Hope to see you soon,
Be Well!
Michele
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