How to Do an Ice Bath for Health

If you’re willing to try an icy plunge for the promise of improved

immunity and increased energy, here’s how to do it:

•Work your way into it – Submerging in ice cold water is a definite

shock to the system. Start by taking just a cold bath. Practice
breathing normally and relaxing. You can increase the amount of ice
you add to the bath as you get used to the water. You can also add
more ice each time you try an ice bath. Even a bath at about 60
degrees has some benefits.

•Move up to a cold plunge tub – For the full effect, you need a tub
that allows you to submerge your whole body. You can make your
own ice bath tub with a galvanized tublike this one (for additional
DIY instructions see this post from Ben Greenfield). If you don’t like
the idea of having to get ice whenever you want an ice bath, you
might consider investing in a cold plunge tub. I use my Furo
Health cold plunge tub several times a week and alternate it with
our barrel sauna. It really does take some slow, deep breathing and
concentration (see what I mean on my Instagram) but your body
adapts over time and it gets easier!

•Follow safety guidelines – If you’re following any specific

program (like Wim Hof) always follow the safety guidelines. In
general, breathe normally and listen to your body.

Final Thoughts on This (Crazy?) Cold Therapy

It may take some stoicism each time, but the benefits of ice bathing and
the way you feel after is so worth it. An improved immune system, better
mental clarity and healthy, and improved metabolism are pretty enticing
benefits and the reason I keep taking the plunge.

Have you ever tried an ice bath? What was your experience?