The Nordic cycle
The Nordic Cycle, an ancient practice cherished by Vikings, not only holds historical significance but also offers tangible medical benefits supported by science.
What is the Nordic Cycle?
The Nordic Cycle, devised by Dr. Oliver Sacks and Dr. James A. Levine, is a hot/cold bath therapy designed to enhance weight loss and boost energy levels. This regimen involves a series of alternating warm and cold baths to recalibrate your body's internal thermostat.
Dr. Sacks highlights that "the cycle has long been part of the Scandinavian lifestyle," and it has been demonstrated to be effective either as a standalone practice or in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches like surgery or dieting. Research has shown that regular use can result in:
1. Shedding up to 25 pounds in three months (or more, depending on individual circumstances)
2. Reducing waist size by 2-3 inches within ten days
3. Enhancing overall mental well-being
The Nordic Cycle comprises a sauna session followed by a cold bath.
The Nordic Cycle is straightforward: spend 15 minutes in a sauna followed by a 2-3 minute dip in a cold bath. Repeat this process four times, totaling one hour in the hot tub and 8-12 minutes in the cold bath, lake, or river. The benefits of this therapy are numerous, including a boosted metabolism, weight loss, improved blood circulation through a pump, and detoxification.
Repeat this cycle FOUR TIMES to complete the Nordic Cycle. If you complete this, let us know or send us a short video of your attempts if you would like to be featured!
Why Do A Nordic Cycle?
If you seek a method to unwind and de-stress from the rigors of your day or seek a bit of a challenge, the Nordic Cycle offers a great solution. Originating from Viking traditions dating back to the 6th century, this practice has been adopted by contemporary fitness enthusiasts in Scandinavia for good reasons:
1. Stress Reduction: This regimen significantly reduces overall stress levels from your mind, helping you focus on being in the moment or as I say, Master the Moment. Regular practice can bolster your self-confidence and impart a sense of accomplishment by completing something challenging.
2. Improved Blood Circulation: Engaging in the Nordic Cycle increases blood circulation throughout your body. The recurring transition between these two temperature extremes can induce the constriction and dilation of blood vessels, generating a pump-like effect, similar to lifting weights. Many individuals report feeling more alert and energized after just one daily session.
The heat of the sauna induces sweating and deepens breathing, cleansing the skin and body of toxins while reducing stress and relaxing tired muscles. Sweating is a natural way to eliminate toxins from your body, and sauna-induced sweating aids in removing impurities from your skin and organs.
Deep breathing increases oxygen flow, improving circulation and promoting relaxation. Deep breaths also enhance lymphatic drainage, facilitating the elimination of toxins through sweat glands in the skin or lungs.
Relaxing tense muscles during this therapy improves circulation by allowing them to relax and expand, alleviating tension build-up.
The final step in the Nordic Cycle is a brief rest, allowing for recovery and restoration of the body's processes, benefitting both physical and mental health.
The recommended resting time may vary based on fitness levels, personal preferences, and the intensity of the workout. It's advisable to start with a 20-minute rest period and adjust as you become more accustomed to the routine.
Resting after exercise improves blood flow and increased fat burning, enhancing muscle recovery and promoting the efficient utilization of stored energy.
Summary
The Nordic Cycle once favored by Vikings, combines hot and cold water therapy with scientifically validated medical advantages. This ancient practice promotes improved circulation, alleviates muscle and joint discomfort, and enhances skin blood flow. The benefits are both historical and medically sound, offering a refreshing path to rejuvenation and well-being.
Contraindications:
People who suffer from high blood pressure, seizures, heart diseases, and who use certain medications or are pregnant should always seek the advice of a health care professional prior to using hot tub devices.
Always be careful swimming in moving water, still water that you can walk into gradually is safer for users.