Cryotherapy is a popular therapy that involves exposing the body to extreme cold temperatures for a short period of time. Although it is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve athletic performance, cryotherapy may also have benefits for those dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression.
Stress, anxiety, and depression are three of the most common mental health conditions affecting people worldwide. While there are many different treatment options available, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, some people may find that cryotherapy provides additional relief. By adding cryotherapy to your life, you can enhance your efforts to beat the blues and get back to living your life!
How cryotherapy helps your mood
Cryotherapy can help you manage your mood and better cope with occasional bouts of depression and anxiety. Let us look at some of the ways it can help.
Reducing pain: Studies have shown that inflammation can play a role in the development and progression of mental health issues. Dealing with chronic pain also takes a mental toll on you, so alleviating pain can help boost your spirits and give you a better overall outlook.
General mood boost: The cold temperatures experienced during cryotherapy can trigger the release of endorphins. These are natural mood-boosters that can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Doing this frequently can help you manage symptoms and work through periods of anxiety or negative feelings.
Feeling in control: Feeling anxiety and depression can make you feel like things are out of your control, which may leave you feeling helpless and hopeless. Providing a controlled environment that you can use to boost endorphins and improve your outlook can reduce that out of control feeling. In this way, cryotherapy can build your confidence in managing your anxiety symptoms and help you regain the reins.
Improved sleep: Many people with anxiety and stress struggle with insomnia. This is a problem that feeds itself, making it harder and harder to solve with every passing night. Cryotherapy can improve sleep quality by triggering the release of hormones that promote relaxation and sleep. Reducing inflammation in the body can help improve sleep, since inflammation can interfere with healthy sleep patterns.
Energizing and wakefulness: Cryotherapy provides a refreshing and invigorating experience, and it is an immediate result. Think about the way you feel stepping outside on a beautiful snowy day with the crisp cool air all around you. This immediate feeling of wakefulness and alertness brings with it positive sensations that cryotherapy mimics.
Finally, cryotherapy can be an effective tool for self-care and stress management. Many people find that the act of taking time to care for their physical health can have a positive impact on their mental health as well.
It is important to note that while cryotherapy can be a helpful tool for managing stress, anxiety, and depression, it should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment. If you are experiencing depression or having negative thoughts, seek help from a mental health professional.
