There are countless benefits to exposing your body to pronounced heat and cold in close succession. Contrast therapy combines the benefits of heat and cold exposure by cycling both to activate cold shock proteins and the relaxation response of heat. The “contrast” between these amplifies the benefits of each response by putting your body in a state of hormesis – put simply, the stress response of extreme temperatures tells your body to generate more recovery proteins and stimulates blood flow.
Research suggests that swelling and other muscle injuries improve significantly faster when heat and cold therapies are combined according to established methods. Cold temperatures induce constriction of the blood vessels, alleviating inflammation. Hot temperatures expand blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the affected area. The combination seems to provide the best of both outcomes, reducing inflammation and delivering oxygenated blood to affected areas.
Contrast therapy reduces inflammation markers and studies have shown that these outcomes also enhance measured strength. Muscle repair is part of the body’s natural hormesis response, which means you can build strength while recovering. We believe in working hard and recovering harder, and contrast therapy empowers you to do both!
Contrast therapy is shown to reduce lactic acid and activate an immune system response, providing your body with wellness benefits that complement a holistic exercise and wellness routine. KOKORO offers contrast therapy to help you recover after a hard workout or on a day when your body needs a little extra help to feel your best.
* Other protocols welcome: please inquire for suggestions
