HOW DOES IT WORK?

The therapeutic effect of low temperatures has been known for centuries. Previously called cold therapy, it gained its current name - cryotherapy (from the ancient Greek words krýos - cold and therapeía - treatment) in the 1970s.

The effect of cold on the body takes place in two phases. The first is the ischaemic phase, when the muscles and blood vessels contract. This slows down the metabolism and circulation, producing an anaesthetic effect. In the second (post-exposure) phase, known as reperfusion, the blood vessels rapidly dilate to warm the body, by means of accelerated blood flow. As a result, tissues and organs become much better oxygenated, which relieves pain and inflammation, speeds up recovery, relaxes the body and makes joints more flexible. It also increases cardiovascular fitness, promotes post-workout recovery, weight loss and improves skin condition. Cryotherapy also leads to powerful ejections of hormones and neurotransmitters, including beta-endorphins, adrenaline, noradrenaline, or cortisol, which improve mood, increase resistance to stress, give an 'energy kick' and significantly improve sleep quality.

The small steps method. Experts advise starting with cold showers - this is the easiest and safest way to train resistance to cold temperatures.
The next step could be so-called dry baths, i.e. in snow. Rubbing or rolling in the snow gives you much more exposure to low temperatures, but also the opportunity to tailor it to your level of resilience and comfort. It is not as direct exposure to the cold as immersion in icy water, and it carries the same benefits.
The next step - full immersion, or so-called walrus bathing. First baths should be short and last between 30 and 60 seconds. An experienced 'walrus' can stay in the water for up to a few minutes, and doctors recommend a frequency of 1-2 times a week. A gentle warm-up should be done before immersion, and afterwards a quick change into dry clothes and warming up with a warm drink.