Discussion on Sauna and Cold Plunge Benefits and How to Best Use Them to Maximize Your Health

Mind Body Marathon

Dr. Leo Kormanik and his colleagues, including Dr. Matt Pisanelli and Zach Goulet, discuss the benefits of heat and cold therapy, specifically sauna work and cold plunges, for athletic performance and recovery.

1.) They explain how heat training helps increase blood volume, capillarization, and heat shock proteins, leading to improved performance and recovery. They also discuss the importance of timing sauna sessions for optimal results, recommending heat training in the evening for better sleep and cold exposure in the morning for increased alertness. They share their experience with heat training and sauna work to improve his tolerance to heat and prepare for upcoming races. They also mention the use of an infrared sauna, which provides a more pleasant experience compared to traditional Finnish saunas.

2.) Cold plunges, saunas, and heat training have numerous benefits for physical and mental health. Saunas can be used for longer periods of time compared to traditional steam saunas, and infrared saunas can stimulate mitochondria for increased energy. Heat training can also be achieved through warm showers, baths, and raising the temperature in workout rooms. Cold plunges can improve recovery and mental state, with acclimation to the cold taking time but resulting in quicker warming up afterwards.

3.) Daily cold showers can be beneficial, with starting with the head first helping with shock and activating the brainstem. Cold plunges can also increase energy levels and have similar benefits to cryo chambers.Cold plunges are the best way to quickly cool down because water pulls heat off the skin faster than air. Cold showers are less effective because there is less water contact with the skin. Cold plunges can be therapeutic and mentally beneficial, helping to reduce stress and improve focus.

4.) The duration of time spent in a cold plunge can vary, with some people timing themselves while others prefer to stay in until they feel ready to come out. Cold exposure can initially be uncomfortable, but the body adapts and the mind becomes more focused. It is important to slowly acclimate to the cold and not panic, as it can be a shock to the system for some people.The conversation discusses the benefits of cold exposure, such as cold plunges and cold hikes, in improving mental and physical resilience.

5.) The process of challenging oneself to cold temperatures can help convert white fat into brown fat, increase energy production, and improve overall health. By exposing the body to temperature changes, blood vessels are trained to expand and contract, potentially preventing clot formation and improving overall cardiovascular health. Embracing discomfort through cold exposure can also help individuals become more resilient in facing life's challenges.

Overall, the theme is centered around the importance of making small investments in health through cold exposure to prevent larger health issues in the future is highlighted.