A Cold plunge – ewwwk 🥶

Hey there, wellness warriors and chill seekers! 🧊✨ Your real estate JED.i here to SPILL the ice-cold “T” on the coolest trend hitting the A-listers’ wellness routines harder than a brain freeze on a hot summer day: Cold Plunges. That’s right — we’re diving deep into the frosty depths of this icy phenomenon, and trust me, it’s not just because we love the thrill of the chill — Let’s get into the nippy gritty of why cold plunges are the hottest thing in self-care!

Why Cold Plunges Are Cool in A-List Wellness Circles

First off, why are all the celebs and health gurus swearing by these polar bear dips? Well, it turns out that taking the plunge into frigid waters is not just a test of mental fortitude; it’s a science-backed wellness hack. Cold plunges have been linked to a slew of benefits for the body, mind, and even the skin.

The Icy Science: Benefits Galore

• Body Buzz: Scientific studies show that cold exposure can boost metabolism and aid in weight loss by activating brown fat (the good kind that helps burn calories). It’s like turning your body into a calorie-burning furnace, but way cooler.
• Mind Over Matter: Ever felt that euphoric high after a cold shower? That’s your brain on cold plunge. Cold exposure releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Skin Deep: Cold water can reduce inflammation and tighten pores, giving you that fresh, “I just woke up like this” glow without the need for a filter.

Best Practices: How to Plunge Like a Pro

1. Start Slow: Don’t just cannonball into the Arctic Ocean. Begin with cool showers, and gradually decrease the temperature over time.
2. Breathe: Master your breath. Deep, controlled breathing helps calm the mind and prepares the body for the shock of cold.
3. Timing is Everything: Start with 30 seconds to a minute and gradually increase your time as you become more acclimated to the cold.
4. End Warm: Here’s a pro tip that’s as hot as it is cool: always conclude your cold plunge session with a warm embrace. It’s totally cool (and recommended) to transition from the cold plunge to either a hot tub, steam room, or sauna. This not only helps your body adjust back to a normal temperature, but it can also enhance circulation, relax your muscles after the initial shock, and deepen the overall wellness benefits. Think of it as the perfect yin to your icy yang, providing a harmonious balance to your body’s adventure in temperatures.

Taking the First Dip

Ready for your first cold plunge? Remember, it’s all about mindset—and a little bit of boldness. Visualize the cold as a wave you’re riding, not a monster you’re fighting. The key here is not to hesitate; if you stand there staring at the water, your mind will conjure a thousand reasons to back out. Instead, embrace the Mel Robbins’ 5-second rule: count down from 5, and just dive in. The initial shock is intense, but if you breathe through it, focusing on deep, controlled breaths, you’ll quickly find a serene, almost meditative state amidst the chill. It’s about overcoming that initial mental barrier with a bit of courage and a lot of breathing. Before you know it, the water feels less like an icy foe and more like a refreshing friend.

Where to Find Your Ultimate Chill Spots in LA

In the sprawling city of Los Angeles, finding a place to take your cold plunge isn’t as daunting as you might think. Sure, LA Fitness in Hollywood is my personal oasis for that icy dip, but the city is teeming with spots that cater to every cold-seeking soul out there. Here’s where you can embrace the chill:

• High-End Spas: For those looking to indulge, high-end spas across LA have been quick to add luxe cold plunge pools to their wellness offerings. Think of places like The Spa at the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, where you can plunge and then lounge in unparalleled luxury.
• Boutique Fitness Centers: Boutique gyms and wellness centers are also getting in on the action, offering cold plunge facilities alongside their fitness classes. It’s a great way to combine your workout and recovery in one spot.
• Trendy New Condos: Here’s the cool new trend—many newer condominiums in LA are making cold plunge pools standard amenities, included with your HOA fees. Imagine having access to your very own cold plunge without even leaving your building. It’s becoming a sought-after luxury for those moving into the city’s sleek new residential skyscrapers.

A Brief and Cool History

So, how did this chilly practice become the wellness world’s hottest trend? Cold therapy has roots in many cultures, with the likes of Roman baths and Nordic ice swimming. But it was Wim Hof, aka “The Iceman,” who really brought cold plunges into the mainstream, showing the world the power of cold exposure to influence health and well-being. And just like that, an icy revolution was born.

My Personal Plunge Journey

Now, for a bit of my personal ice-capade. I started my cold plunge journey during a Rob Dial’s (aka the Mindset Mentor) 30 Day Challenge harboring 6 Pillars (one of those being something that puts you out of your comfort zone– COLD Showers and COLD Plunges were most definitely out of my Comfort Zone… so my first time out — I clocked in at a shivering 1.5 minutes. But with perseverance, a love for the thrill, and yes, Ed Sheeran’s “Shivers” playing in the background (because, Irony 🤷🏻‍♂️)… I’ve now hit the 7-minute mark. It’s a journey of icy ups and downs, but the rush, the glow, and the sheer bragging rights? Totally worth it 😎

So, there you have it, “T” Sippers– whether you’re looking to boost your metabolism, sharpen your mind, or just find a new way to chill out, cold plunges might just be the plunge worth taking. Just remember, the cold is not your enemy; it’s your exhilarating, endorphin-pumping, wellness-boosting ALLY! Stay cool, stay brave, and who knows, maybe I’ll see you at LA Fitness for an icy dip and a high-five. ❄️👋

#ColdPlungeMania #FreezeAndFabulous #ChillLikeACeleb

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. While cold plunging may offer potential health benefits, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new wellness regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or concerns. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The author and publisher of this article disclaim any liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of any information contained herein.