Embracing the Cold: My Journey with Cryotherapy and Its Benefits

When the wind in the cryotherapy chamber reaches a violent crescendo, you’ll have spent—if you can stay in there—anywhere from two to three and a half minutes at temperatures ranging from -40°F to -175°F.

I’m not entirely sure how they create that atmosphere—or even if it’s intentional—but if you keep your eyes open at the lowest setting, you’ll see ice crystals flailing about in the air. In that moment, you’ve either moved past the fight-or-flight phase into a state of relative calm, or you’re clawing at the door, wrestling with your demons.

With your eyes closed, as I prefer, a barely perceptible kaleidoscope of shifting light marks the passage of time—a process science says can decrease muscle inflammation and accelerate recovery. Having acclimated to cryotherapy as a recovery and wellness tool, I no longer feel trepidation or claustrophobia; instead, I now eagerly anticipate each session.

Reflections and Learning

With age and experience come deep reflections. I cherish leatherwork, photography, journaling, and writing poetry, and I deliberately carve out time to think. I value learning and always strive to listen more than I speak. My personal journey with cryotherapy has been shaped by time spent in the chamber. Yet, for the sake of transparency, I’ll also explore what science says—not to validate my own theories, but to see if they align and to convince you, the reader, of the tangible benefits I’ve experienced.

Although certain contraindications may render cryotherapy unsuitable for some, you should do your research and consult your doctor before embarking on this protocol.

Guided Introduction to Cryotherapy

Your initial introduction to the process will be through a competent user. I use the term “Shaman” sincerely, because although the data doesn’t deem cryotherapy dangerous, having an observer in the room is crucial to ensure your safety and help you navigate any adverse emotional responses or coping mechanisms. They’re there to coach, keep time, set up the machine, and observe. I was fortunate to have an encouraging, knowledgeable support person—articulate, empathetic, and with a high emotional IQ—to guide me.

A Gradual Approach to Cold Therapy

My advice is to begin with a minimum effective dose—2 minutes at -40°F—for at least three sessions. This allows your extremities (yes, even the skin on your nostrils and your nipples) to acclimate, gives you a chance to learn how hats, gloves, and booties can help, and teaches you where best to place your hands to ward off any mild frostbite. Then, much like progressing in an exercise plan, gradually increase your time and lower the temperature. By then, you’ll also have honed your mental resilience against any lingering claustrophobia or fight-or-flight responses.

Although the protocol is most effective post-workout for reducing soreness and inflammation, it can also expedite overall recovery. Beyond exercise, cryotherapy has been linked to benefits such as alleviating arthritis and anxiety, as well as promoting collagen production, improved skin tone, and elasticity.

The Science-Backed Benefits

I’ve personally experienced a profound sense of calm after each session—a feeling my tracking data confirms through a lower metabolic heart rate. Coupled with better sleep and faster recovery times, cryotherapy has played a significant role in enhancing my overall well-being. I’ve also become more aware of my breathing and breath control—perhaps due to the mild hyperventilation during the first 20-30 seconds of my initial sessions—which has proven advantageous during high-intensity interval training.

For anyone who qualifies to incorporate cryotherapy as a wellness tool alongside other training protocols, I can highly recommend it.

Experience Cryotherapy for Yourself

As a member of Gym 1801, I encourage you to speak with one of our cryotherapy Shamans to experience it for yourself. Learn more about cryotherapy at Gym 1801 here. To make an appointment, email info@1801.life or call us at (847) 425-5160.