Cold Immersion therapy refers to cold water plunges in the ocean during the winter months and into early Spring, and it could surprisingly be the best thing for your health.
Heading into late winter, Australians will be feeling the lowest temperatures in Australia for the year – and that includes the ocean. It can be hard to reconcile a classic beach-filled lifestyle when the weather takes a harsher turn in these months, but studies show that this can be the most beneficial time to plunge into colder waters.
For centuries, humans have been doing cold water therapy for physical and mental health benefits. Reportedly, submerging oneself in cold water for a few minutes can aid recovery time, promote good circulation and improve immunity.
But how does it work?
The primary theory is: When a person enters the cold water, their blood vessels shrink (vasoconstriction), which lowers their blood flow and triggers a nervous system response which lowers inflammation.
When they exit the water, vasodilation (the widening of the blood vessels) occurs, delivering nutrients through their increased rate of blood flow all around their body at a higher rate, helping them heal and recover.
Read more at our article here about how ocean water and peptides can be the new beauty solution.
Certainly, many people associate the practice with snowy regions and frozen-over lakes, but Australia’s beautiful beaches are just as good to host this refreshing habit.
For some, they opt to walk into the water until it is near their shoulders and simply hover in the water. The cool environment makes it an optimal time for reflection and meditation while connecting with the natural world. Some doctors report that engaging in cold water immersion can lower stress levels by triggering a release of good hormones, not unlike a runner’s high. There has even been a report from the University of Cambridge that found it could slow the onset of degenerative diseases like dementia.
Others may prefer an ocean swim to simply floating around – it’s not uncommon to see a few swimmers out, even on a cloudy day – but it’s important to have strong swimming skills before going into the open waters. An ocean pool is a safer option for anyone looking to swim this winter, but without experience in the ocean environment. A wetsuit is also recommended to help on longer swims.
Our favourite locations
Wondering which beach or pool to visit? Bondi Beauty has our readers covered with our top spots for a cold plunge in and around the Eastern Suburbs.
Bondi Icebergs
Ocean-side pool with $10 entry – get the benefits of an ocean swim without the more strenuous ocean waves. And to make it more exciting, a visit to the sauna is included in the admission fee – the perfect place for swimmers to warm up afterwards.
Coogee Beach (8 minute drive)
Coogee Beach is one of Sydney’s most famous, and for good reason. This beach is a great place to go for a cold plunge, especially with friends. Keen individuals can pair the ocean visit with an outing to a great brunch spot or doing the iconic Bondi to Coogee walk.
Milk Beach (12 minute drive)
This hidden gem in Vaucluse boasts less crowds and calmer waters, and thanks to its location, it keeps water temperatures a bit lower than the surrounding, more popular beaches. Additionally, this beach has gorgeous views of Sydney Harbour, the best place for visitors to relax and clear their mind.
Another added benefit of ocean swimming is the mineral-rich waters. For people who have psoriasis or eczema, the salty ocean can help heal up any small abrasions and help their skin return to its regular state. Some people report that their acne can also be cleared up by ocean water – but remember, the salt can dry out the skin, so always moisturise after a trip to the beach.
Athletes often use the cold water immersion method too, minimising muscle damage after a workout. This is the perfect post-run or gym activity, healing while relaxing on the sandy shores of the eastern coast.
Afterwards is a great time to practice mindfulness. Let the warm sun dry off the cold ocean water, listen to the serene sounds of the beach, and let the mind rest and feel grounded in the moment.
Professionals recommend that first-timers build up to longer experiences – swimmers should make sure to give themselves time to properly acclimatise to the temperatures, and remain for only a minute or two, gradually increasing the time they spend submerged. Also, if for anyone with a heart or lung condition, they should make sure to consult with a GP before going on longer plunges or deciding between the open ocean and a pool.
