TAKING THE PLUNGE: MY FIRST COLD PLUNGE EXPERIENCE

For years, the idea of cold plunging both intrigued and intimidated me. I was in desperate need of a cold plunge for beginners guide— Cold Plunge for Dummies, anyone? Would it be exhilarating, tortuous, or perhaps even magical? My chance to experience it for myself came while traveling in Japan, where I was irresistibly drawn into the world of cold immersion.

Japan has an abundance of natural cold and hot springs. I was staying at a resort with a beautiful Onsen, a traditional Japanese spring where people can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of mineral-rich waters that offered both a hot and cold experience. The hot spring was just as you’d imagine: hot, steamy, with still water, and very relaxing—actually a LOT like the Soake Pool experience! Nestled beside it was the cold bath, waiting for those daring enough to explore contrast therapy, going back and forth from hot to cold.

Stepping into a cold plunge for the first time, I approached it with cautious curiosity. Attempting a gradual entry, I quickly realized that would not work. So, with a deep breath, I plunged in shoulder-deep. The shock of the cold was immediate and intense. I thought I would be scrambling for warmth on dry land, but I persevered. As seconds turned to minutes, I felt resilient and knew it was doable. By the end of three minutes, I debated staying in longer but remembered that the recommended time to cool your core temperature was three minutes. My skin was cold to the touch (especially my buttocks and fattier areas), but I wasn’t cold. I felt good! I went about my day but couldn’t stop thinking about the cold plunge.

Excited and filled with anticipation, I returned the next morning to try the cold plunge again. This time I lingered just beyond the three-minute mark, attempting to relax and reminding myself that three minutes was doable. This time I felt a surge of energy shortly after getting out of the cold water. I felt invincible.

Days three, four, and five the benefits multiplied, leaving me feeling even more rejuvenated and alive.

I am absolutely a believer in cold plunging. The afterglow of cold plunging enveloped me in a sense of clarity and contentment and, oddly enough, I felt clean. It was as if I had cleansed not just my body, but my mind and soul—as though experiencing that clean sensation you get after drinking a healthy green juice.

Now, I find joy in sharing my cold plunge journey with others, eager to hear their experiences and insights. If you, too, embark on this icy adventure, I encourage you to embrace it wholeheartedly and discover what benefits it has to offer you! I am fairly certain you’ll find many! Read more of the benefits of cold plunging in our blog here.