Contrast Therapy at Old Rectory House

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Our resident contrast therapy instructor Jamie, started his ice bath journey while searching for answers to a long term back injury. Not only did the cold water exposure dramatically improve his back but it also had a huge positive impact on his overall physical and mental health. He then discovered if cold immersion is used in conjunction with the sauna, the benefits are compounded.

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Having seen the massive benefits first hand, Jamie wanted to know the 'why', which took him on an educational journey of many hours of online training. This culminated in a trip to Sweden to learn the science and best methods for safe and accessible sauna and cold water therapy. The Nordic nations are the spiritual home of contrast therapy where it's a way of life and it's no coincidence they are among the healthiest countries in the world with the best quality of life.

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We have created a fantastic contrast therapy area in our woodland with wood-fired sauna, ice baths and hot tub where we will be hosting workshops and retreats to give our clients the opportunity to unlock to power of the cold and heat to transform their health. Surrounded by nature, this is the perfect environment for these activities. This space is also available for our shepherd hut guest to book by the hour for private use.

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Health benefits of cold & heat therapy:

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Reduced inflammation : Whether you are an athlete in training, recovering from an injury, suffering from arthritis or just managing general soreness/stiffness from ageing - cold and heat therapy can help manage the pain and improve recovery.

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Cardiovascular Health : Contrast therapy and the sauna in particular can positively impact your cardiovascular system by lowering blood pressure. The increased heart rate in the sauna can also mimic exercise and be hugely beneficial to those unable to partake in traditional forms of exercise.

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Metabolic Health : Cold plunging activates our brown fat which increases our metabolism and increases calorie burning to help with weight loss. While the calorie burn from a single ice bath session might be modest, repeated exposure can lead to long-term metabolic benefits. Cold exposure also increases insulin sensitivity which can help combat diabetes.

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Immune System : Both cold plunging and sauna can increase white blood cell production which boosts the immune system. Contrast therapy also improves sleep which provides huge benefits to our immune system and overall health.

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Mental Health & Stress Reduction : Contrast therapy can have many positive benefits to our mental health. Several hormones are released including dopamine and endorphins which improve mood and reduce anxiety. Cold plunging can trigger a short term stress response with this release of cortisol. This hormetic stress is healthy short term stress which helps our bodies adapt and become more resilient in the long term.​​​​​​​​

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Heat & cold therapy has many so proven physical and mental health benefits, however, like most activities, it isn’t without risks. If you have any pre-existing conditions, especially any cardiovascular issues, circulation problems, high blood pressure or if you’re pregnant, do not use these facilities. If you are in any doubt please check with a medical professional first. Do not use any of these facilities alone, if you are unwell or while under the influence of alcohol. You can see our full sauna and ice bath user guide here.