Cold therapy: Recovery, energy & anti-ageing – Discover the power of cold

In traditional whole-body cold therapy (also known as cryotherapy), the body is exposed to temperatures ranging from -85 °C to -110 °C for two to four minutes – usually in a special high-performance cold chamber. During this short period, remarkable changes take place within the body: blood vessels constrict, the immune system is activated, stress hormones are reduced and feel-good hormones are released.

These extreme cold stimuli trigger a cascade of regenerative, anti-inflammatory and rejuvenating processes in the body – with a measurable impact on fitness, skin condition, metabolism and mental performance.

The extreme cold inhibits inflammatory processes in muscle tissue. Cryotherapy works wonders, particularly after intensive training sessions or competitions: it reduces muscle soreness, speeds up the healing of micro-injuries and ensures a quicker return to peak performance.

Studies show that athletes who regularly use cold therapy recover more quickly and are able to increase their training frequency – with noticeable improvements in muscle growth, flexibility and resilience.

Plunging into the cold acts like a reset button for the nervous system. The high concentration of noradrenaline and endorphins released during and after the cold session results in:

• increased alertness,

• a better mood,

• mental clarity and

• long-term resilience to stress.

At a time when burnout, sensory overload and constant availability are becoming a burden, cold offers a natural balance – with no side effects whatsoever.

By improving microcirculation and stimulating collagen production, regular treatments can enhance skin elasticity and visibly refine the skin’s appearance. Puffiness is reduced, fine lines are smoothed out, and the complexion appears fresher and more even.

Cold therapy really comes into its own, particularly when combined with holistic skincare approaches and medical wellness programmes.

Whilst the body works flat out to maintain a constant core temperature, it burns calories – and plenty of them. Studies report up to 500 calories per session. Even more exciting: cold therapy stimulates the formation of brown adipose tissue, which boosts energy expenditure in the long term.

For people who want to manage their weight in the long term whilst also stimulating mitochondrial activity, this is a highly interesting option.

The areas of application are wide-ranging. The following groups benefit in particular:

• Athletes – for targeted recovery and performance optimisation

• People with chronic inflammation or pain (e.g. rheumatism, osteoarthritis)

• Beauty enthusiasts – for natural skin rejuvenation and cellulite reduction

• Stressed, busy professionals – for mental relaxation and improved sleep

• Biohackers – who want to optimise their bodies in a targeted way

Caution is advised in cases of heart disease, severe high blood pressure, cold allergies or open wounds – medical advice should be sought beforehand.

More and more high-end hotels specialising in health and performance are incorporating cryotherapy treatments into their spa or medical wellness programmes. Some partner hotels of hotelsINshape.com already offer cold chambers or alternative cold treatments such as ice labs, ice mist showers or cold therapy lounges. The combination of state-of-the-art technology and a natural setting creates the ideal conditions for holistic relaxation.

Cold treatments can be perfectly combined with sauna sessions, massage treatments and fitness programmes. Anyone wishing to work on their body and mind whilst on holiday will find the perfect balance between exertion and relaxation here.

If you’re looking for a gentle way to get started, you can also introduce cold stimuli into your daily routine – without any special techniques:

• Alternating hot and cold showers in the morning

• A cold foot bath after training

• Winter walks in shorts à la Wim Hof

• An icy lake after the sauna

It’s important to remember: Cold should be used consciously, but not compulsively. The body needs to get used to it gradually – then, over time, you’ll develop not just tolerance, but genuine enthusiasm.

Cold therapy is much more than just a brief moment of shock – it’s a real boost to your health, wellbeing and beauty. Whether you want to get rid of sore muscles, calm your mind or simply improve your complexion: a few minutes in the cold chamber could become your new favourite routine.