Contrast Therapy
Restore. Reset. Reconnect.
Contrast therapy—alternating between cold plunges and infrared saunas—is a deeply restorative practice that brings your body back into balance. It’s not just a physical reset; it’s a ritual for nervous system regulation, emotional resilience, and whole-body vitality.
By moving between cold and heat, we stimulate the body’s natural ability to heal, release tension, and return to a grounded, present state. It’s a powerful tool for recovery, clarity, and energetic renewal.
Contrast therapy is more than a wellness trend—it’s an ancient wisdom reborn. By weaving together the primal forces of heat and cold, we awaken the body’s natural healing rhythms. For women, this becomes even more powerful when practiced in sync with the menstrual cycle. (See below for details.)
Whether you’re here for recovery, stress release, or simply to feel more alive in your body—contrast therapy welcomes you back to center. Come as you are. Let the elements hold you.
Why Contrast Therapy Works
This practice works through a process of vasoconstriction (cold) and vasodilation (heat), which activates circulation, supports detoxification, and rebalances the nervous system.
Benefits Include:
• Enhanced circulation – Improves blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body
• Reduced inflammation – Supports recovery and eases chronic pain and soreness
• Improved mood and stress relief – Regulates the nervous system, reduces anxiety, and boosts endorphins
• Better sleep and energy – Supports circadian rhythms and enhances rest
• Glowing skin and detox support – Infrared sauna opens pores and boosts lymphatic flow; cold plunges tone and tighten
• Stronger immune function – Trains the body to adapt to stress and temperature shifts
• Resilience and clarity – Helps build mental toughness and emotional steadiness through gentle challenge
Women & Contrast Therapy: Syncing with Your Cycle
Women’s bodies are cyclical and intuitive. Our hormonal shifts throughout the month change how we respond to cold and heat. By honoring these rhythms, contrast therapy becomes not just healing—but deeply empowering.
Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5)
• What’s happening: The body is shedding, hormones are low, energy is inward.
• Recommendations:
• Short, gentle infrared sauna can help ease cramps and support circulation
• Avoid intense cold plunges—your body is already doing deep work
• Opt for a warm bath or a cool rinse instead of a full plunge
Follicular Phase (Days 6–14)
• What’s happening: Estrogen is rising, energy is building
• Recommendations:
• This is a great time to engage in full contrast sessions
• Try 15–20 minutes in the sauna and 2–3 minutes in the cold plunge
• Your body is resilient and adaptive—build strength here
Ovulation (Around Day 14)
• What’s happening: Estrogen peaks, mood and energy are high
• Recommendations:
• You’re at your most resilient! This is an optimal time for contrast therapy
• Use this phase to explore longer or deeper cold plunges and energizing sauna sessions
Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)
• What’s happening: Progesterone rises, body heat increases, energy begins to wane
• Recommendations:
• Lean into infrared sauna to support mood and soothe PMS symptoms
• Keep cold plunges short and gentle—30 seconds to 1 minute is plenty
• Focus on nurturing, not pushing
Your body is your greatest guide. Every phase of your cycle is an opportunity to connect more deeply with what you need:
• Feeling tender? Soften into warmth.
• Feeling strong? Challenge yourself gently with the cold.
• Feeling overwhelmed? Let the rhythm of hot and cold reset your system.
Contrast therapy invites you to listen, adjust, and honor your changing needs.