Freeze Tub

free standard shipping on all orders over $220

freezetub logo

BLOG

How Ice Baths Help Fight Depression: Uncovering the Power of Cold Water Therapy

depression

Depression is a prevalent mental health issue that affects millions of people around the world, and traditional treatments like antidepressants may not work for everyone. As a result, there is a growing interest, well, let’s say a Massive trend, in alternative therapies, like cold water therapy to help combat depression and anxiety.

In this article we’ll help explore the science behind cold water therapy, the benefits of ice baths for depression, and how to incorporate ice baths into your mental health routine.

By understanding the potential cold water therapy and its positive impact on mental health, you can make informed decisions about whether this innovative approach is the right approach for you.

The Science Behind Cold Water Therapy.

Several studies have suggested that cold water therapy is likely to have positive impacts on mental health. When we say cold water therapy, it would include cold baths, iced lakes and now for convenience, portable ice baths but also cold showers but studies have shown, being completely submerged in cold water has the better benefit.

“Cold Hydrotherapy is the practice of submerging yourself in freezing-like water for a defined period. If you are consistent with this type of practice, it can help treat certain health conditions, including mental health and anxiety’ says Dale Folland, the owner of Freeze Tub and Former Nutritionist. “The biochemical and physiological changes in your body are significant with evidence proving it can improve blood pressure, increase your metabolism to help lose fat, and help to regulate the nervous system” he adds.

The Benefits of Ice Baths for Depression

Ice bath benefits are far and wide except one particular benefit is making rather large icy waves. Ice Baths have been found to provide several benefits for those individuals suffering mental health challenges.

Every mental condition differs from person to person but cold water therapy benefits helps to:

     

      • Lower anxiety levels

      • Helps to reduce headaches caused by stress and anxiety

      • Help reduce depression symptoms

      • Builds stress resilience

      • Helps improve overall brain function

    Note: This article is for educational purposes only and not considered medical advice. If you are struggling with depression, or any other mental health challenge I encourage you to go talk to a health professional who can help.


    Ready to Try Your Portable Ice Bath at Home?

    ice bath nz

    Get started with Freeze Tub Solo


    Incorporating Ice Baths into your Mental Health Routine

    The fully reap the benefits of ice baths for depression, it’s essential to incorporate them into your mental health routine. Here are some tips to help you stay on track with your cold water therapy.

       

        • Start slowly. When you fill your ice bath for the first time, start with regular hose water and just ease your body in slowly.

        • Have short exposures, perhaps one to two minute plunges initially.

        • Gradually increase the cold plunging to three to 5 minutes.

        • When you feel you can plunge for up to five minutes, you can start to add in ice.

      When you want to challenge yourself and either go colder or plunge for longer periods, you can incorporate breathing exercises, like Wim Hof Breathing methods to help push your boundaries.

      Once you use cold water therapy for longer periods and stay consistent, you will start to benefit from what cold exposure effects bring, but consistency is key.

      Now It’s Your Turn

      It doesn’t take much to join the community of ice bath enthusiasts.

      Reading is one thing, but doing is another. To feel the immense benefits that cold water plunging gives your body and mind, get stuck in and try it for yourself.

      You won’t want to go a day without it.

      Author

      • Dale Folland

        Dale is a seasoned Nutritionist with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. His expertise has been sought after by elite groups such as NZ SAS Soldiers and NZ Fire Service, where he has contributed to optimising their performance and well-being. Dale is also a renowned speaker and educator and his work has been recognised in publications like the Daily Mail and various US media outlets.

      Table of Contents