Who says that physical and spiritual rejuvenation has to be a complicated process? A spa experience could do wonders for your mind and body, but some spa procedures have become increasingly complex. The ancient Greeks had the spa experience down to a simple form: by exposing yourself different temperatures, you will be able to gain harmony in the body. Steam rooms, saunas, and hot-and-cold plunge pools date back thousands of years…and they’re still going strong!
Called a water circuit, this simple method of healing helps to put your body back into balance. Most people begin with ten minutes in a dry sauna, which gradually increases your body temperature. The sauna is followed by a refreshing dip in a cold plunge pool for about one minute. This rapid cooling process gives your entire inner body a workout as it helps to regulate your body temperature. The cold temperatures help to narrow your blood vessels and stimulate your thyroid gland, which acts as an inner thermostat. As with any type of exercise, high-intensity workouts should be interspersed with periods of recovery. So, after you’ve finished the cold plunge, it’s best to sit and relax for a little bit to allow your body to get back to its normal state of comfort.
For folks who love the heat, a second heat repetition in a steam room for about ten minutes will help to expand the blood vessels back out again and increase circulation. This part of the water circuit is great for people who love a good sweat, but be sure to hydrate and rest throughout the process. Every heat circuit should be followed by a cold plunge or shower so that your body temperature can return to normal. The repeated contraction and expansion of your blood vessels acts as a type of pumping system to help quickly move toxins out of your body.
The best part about a water circuit is that you don’t have to go to an expensive spa to experience its rejuvenating benefits. You can get your own water circuit experience at home by hopping in a warm bath followed up by a quick cold spray in the shower. You can play around with the water temperature in your home to see what feels best for you!
