What Arctic Freeze?

​New York’s subzero weather gave me an opportunity to test cold temperatures

After increasing my body-heat in a sauna, I got ankle deep into near freezing water. My feet were aching from the stabbing cold, and chunks of ice brushed against my leg as I splashed myself to get acclimated. (Notice the surface ice on the water and dangling icicles above. The adrenalin rush, due to the sudden change in temperature is hard to put in words.) 

The ice-cold (not warm) water gushing down on my shoulders, neck and back, made me gasp for air and cry with anguish. On the other hand, I observed an improved tolerance to cold temperatures, as I was no longer shivering in the chilling wind. (As you can tell, I am not over dressed because being a swimmer, I know first hand that nothing is worse than having soaked layers of icy clothing cling to your skin.)

Finally, I threw my entire body in the water until I was completely submerged. Brrr! The water was as shocking as I expected. Even though I stayed under for only a few seconds, my body started to constrict, muscles began to tighten and clearly felt some cranial throbbing. At this point, I saw no point in staying any longer, so I quickly got out. (Even though I felt feelings of dizziness - a sign of mild hypothermia - I was not worried about anything bad happening, since I figured, the medical staff at SOJO spa would know what to do if I fainted from the cold or something)

What I got out of plunging into a basin of icy water?

First, I can't think of a better way to completely release the lethargy and stress we normally have to deal with every day. Second, the icy water invigorated and energized me and gave me back what I lost in my daily life’s routine. It's much like having  cryotherapy. (My skin looked radiant and flushed and I felt rejuvenated and ready to battle anything after this! ) 

Full body ice baths are recommended by top athletes and sport experts for recovery, including instant stress relief and recharging. ​Because cold-water exposure carries a certain level of consequence, its best to consult with your GP to find out the risks involved. Then if cleared, ignore your initial reaction of dread and plunge in anyway.  It'll be the most satisfying and glaring changes you've ever experienced. 

Zoltan