There are certainly stand-alone health benefits for using a infrared sauna and cold plunge tub independently. Ice baths have been shown to increase blood flow, decrease the degree of muscle soreness, increase immune function, elevate mood and much more. Conversely, hot sauna benefits include pain relief, reduce stress and improved cardiovascular health. For hundreds of years, people of all cultures have touted the advantages of these extreme therapies, but more and more research points to increased benefits from the utilization of both.
The one and only Fire & Ice room at Clark Salon and Spa makes it easy to enjoy the benefits of infrared sauna and cold plunge tub in a clean, state-of-the-art environment.
The alternating use of both hot and cold therapies for maximum benefit is called Contrast Therapy and is exactly what is offered inside the new Fire and Ice Room at Clark Salon and Spa. There are a variety of recommended protocols to effectively combine the cold plunge tub and sauna. The result is a rejuvenating experience that increases blood flow and endorphins. It’s basically a workout for your circulatory system and a test of your mental toughness. A sauna session before a dip in the cold plunge will awaken your body systems and stabilize your mood. A few rounds of alternating contrast will leave you feeling relaxed and invigorated.
Contrast therapy utilizes both hot and cold therapy for maximum health benefits:
For athletes, the benefits include decreased inflammation and muscle soreness. Lactic acid can build up after vigorous exercise and contrast therapy helps clear out the toxins and help aid in quicker recovery not to mention cold plunge aiding in sleep and even weight loss. The uptick in cold plunge popularity by celebrities and scientists such as Dr. Andrew Huberman on social media have made the population curious about this cure-all health trend, and the actual experience has created true believers in the benefits.
People are afraid of all kinds of things: flying, public speaking, heights or even the dark, but being brave (acting while scared) can sometimes be beneficial in conquering our fears- or at least not letting them conquer us.
Keenan, owner of Clark Salon & Spa, praises its culture and employee retention. Benefits include apprenticeships, career paths, in-house education, and monthly coaching.
Emily Creedon is a talented esthetician at Clark Salon who specializes in lash tint, chemical peel and touch massage.
