Aug 2, 2023
Ice baths, also known as cold immersion therapy, are not a modern fitness fad but an ancient practice with a plethora of health benefits. At Lizard Yoga Spa, centrally located in the vibrant heart of Austin, we’re bringing back this age-old tradition to complement your wellness journey.
Scientific research has long supported the benefits of ice baths. According to neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman from Stanford University, ice baths can have a dramatic impact on reducing inflammation, enhancing recovery after intense physical activity, and even boosting immunity.
Ice baths work by exposing the body to cold temperatures, triggering a process known as vasoconstriction – the narrowing of blood vessels. This constriction reduces blood flow to the muscles, which in turn decreases inflammation and swelling. Once you step out of the ice bath and your body begins to warm up, vasodilation – the widening of blood vessels – takes place, leading to an increased flow of oxygen-rich blood to the muscles. This contrast process can significantly aid in faster muscle recovery.
Furthermore, regular exposure to cold water has been found to boost the immune system. It triggers the body to increase its metabolic rate in an effort to maintain body temperature, which leads to the production of more white blood cells – our body’s primary line of defense against diseases.
At Lizard Yoga Spa, we understand that plunging into an ice-cold bath may seem daunting. That’s why we’ve designed private contrast therapy suites, each featuring a personal ice bath and a sauna. The warmth of the sauna can help ease your body into the cooling benefits of an ice bath, making the experience less intimidating and more beneficial. Our private suites also ensure you have a relaxing, uninterrupted session.
If you’re new to cold immersion therapy, start slow. Aim for one to two minutes initially, gradually increasing the duration as your body adapts to the temperature. Always remember, consistency is key to reaping the full benefits of ice baths.
So why not challenge yourself and explore the cool, revitalizing benefits of ice baths at Lizard Yoga Spa? Not only will you be taking a proactive step towards enhanced recovery and immunity, but you’ll also be partaking in a practice that has stood the test of time. Located in the heart of Austin, we’re ready to guide you on this refreshing journey towards a healthier you.
Give us a call to book your private contrast therapy suite today. Discover the rejuvenating power of ice baths and add a cool twist to your wellness routine with Lizard Yoga Spa.
Nov 16, 2021
When float tanks were introduced to the public in the 1980s, I jumped in with both feet. The experience reminded me of my previous scuba diving adventures in Hawaii. I also realized I could easily adjust to sensory deprivation.
Decades later, in 2018, I was invited to an event that offered the opportunity to float. I looked forward to it, but I had forgotten the rules. During the first few minutes of floating, I put my hand to my face and got the saltwater in my eyes. Needless to say, I was miserable nearly the entire float.
Fast forward to 2021.
My younger brother died unexpectedly in mid-October. The grief I felt was deep and constant. The process of loss can not only cause psychological but physical trauma, as well. As for me, I felt a heaviness in my heart that started to worry me. I expressed that to Liz and Tanner, owners of Lizard Yoga, because I was working on the LizardYoga.com website at the time, and I needed time to recuperate from the grief.
Liz and Tanner were full of compassion. Lovingly, they offered me a complimentary float session to reset and find some peace and stillness.
I entered the studio for the first time, where I was warmly received by a receptionist. She asked me if I wanted some tea and told me to watch a video that prepared me for my float. The information was helpful. Even though I had floated many times, I learned some things I had never heard before.
I was guided to one of the flotation rooms. Everything was prepared for me and nicely laid out. There was a spray bottle filled with fresh water inside the tank, just in case. Brilliant!
I was offered the choice to keep the music on for the entire 60 minutes. I opted out.
A few minutes after I got in, the music faded out softly, as did the light…
Surprisingly, my mind wasn’t racing in all directions. Almost involuntarily, I began to meditate. In my mind’s eye, I had very peaceful visions. Most of the time, I was “in the gap.” My thoughts, when I did have them, were few and far between.
It’s easier to feel the body when you’re floating in saltwater, and I noticed some pain in my right shoulder from working on the computer a lot. I asked the pain how to release it and immediately had the urge to stretch my body, which seemed to stretch further than I have experienced in a while. I did this a few times until the pain subsided. Following that process, I had the urge to breathe. My lungs filled up to their maximum capacity. I held my breath for a second and slowly exhaled. I did this multiple times and felt completely at peace as I floated in the stillness. The body temperature liquid carried me effortlessly and reminded me what it must have been like to be a baby in my mother’s womb…
The music faded in slowly a few minutes before the time was up. The light faded in slowly and I stretched one more time. I entered time and space again, grateful for the experience. In the same room, there is a shower, which is equipped with body wash, shampoo, and conditioner that smelled nice. I got dressed and went to another room down the hall, where I blow-dried my hair and got ready for the day. I had been told that I could chill out in a room with salt walls and warm lighting and stay however long I felt the need to. There is an offering of books and cards to read, water, and tea to sip. I was never rushed or intruded upon in any way the entire time I was there.
I planned a full day of work after my float. I changed my mind because I felt the need to take a nap. I woke up an hour later focused and energized. I also felt at peace about my brother’s passing. I have not cried or felt the trauma of his passing since then.
Much love and appreciation,
Marion Trent, Web Designer
CreativeMomentum.net
