A Guide to Contrast Therapy at Divers Cove

There is something truly special about the feeling of wild swimming. The initial jolt of cold water, the quiet calm of the lake, and the sense of connection with the natural world around you. 

Yet, for many, the journey does not stop there. The growing popularity of contrast therapy, alternating between cold and heat, has introduced a new layer to this ancient practice. It’s a powerful combination that revitalises the body and calms the mind.

Our lake provides the perfect setting for a cold water dip, and our welcoming saunas and ice barrels complete the experience. 

The question we often hear is about the sequence: what is the best way to combine a cold dip with a sauna? 

The simple answer is that you can move from cold to hot, and back again, in a way that feels good for you. There is no single correct path, as the beauty lies in discovering what your own body and mind respond to. 

The Physical and Mental Benefits of the Cold

A cold water dip, whether in our lake or an ice barrel, is a wonderful way to begin your contrast therapy session. When you first enter the cold water, your body responds with a physiological shock. This is not a cause for concern, but a natural reaction that triggers a cascade of beneficial processes. 

Your heart rate increases, and your blood vessels constrict. This response, known as vasoconstriction, is your body's way of conserving heat and protecting your core temperature. It also leads to a powerful rush of adrenaline and endorphins, giving you that incredible sense of energy and clarity many swimmers talk about.

This initial shock builds mental resilience, as you learn to control your breathing and stay present in a moment of discomfort. This practice of calm under pressure is a skill that can be carried into other areas of your life. Cold water exposure is also thought to help reduce inflammation and muscle soreness, making it a popular choice for those looking for a way to aid their physical recovery. Regular dips can also improve your circulatory health over time.

The Warmth and Its Calming Effects

Following a cold dip, moving into the warmth of our sauna is a deeply restorative experience. The sudden change from cold to heat causes your blood vessels to dilate rapidly, flooding your system with fresh, oxygenated blood. This feeling of warmth spreading through your body is one of the most rewarding parts of the session. The heat helps to relax your muscles and ease any tension, both physical and mental.

The sauna also encourages sweating, which is a wonderful way to detoxify the body and cleanse the skin. It’s a moment of quiet contemplation, a space to simply be. This contrast between the invigorating cold and the soothing heat is where the real magic of the therapy happens. The cycle of constriction and dilation of your blood vessels is sometimes called a ‘vascular workout’, which is a gentle and effective way to support your cardiovascular system.

Alternating Temperatures

Combining a cold dip with a sauna session is known as contrast therapy. This practice is rooted in ancient traditions and is a testament to the powerful effects of hot and cold on the human body. The most common approach is to spend a period in the cold, followed by a period in the heat. There are no strict rules, but many people find it helpful to start with a cold dip, move into the sauna to warm up, and then repeat the cycle as they feel comfortable. It is vital to listen to your body and never overdo it. Our qualified practitioners are always on hand to offer guidance and ensure you get the most from your session.

This cyclical process of shocking the system and then calming it down is deeply beneficial. The transition from cold to hot can give you a profound sense of well-being, leaving you feeling truly refreshed. Many people report a significant reduction in stress, a more positive mood, and improved sleep quality after a contrast therapy session. The effect on your mental state is often the most profound, as the practice encourages a mindful presence that is rare in the rush of daily life.

Our Sauna and Ice Barrel Facilities

We believe that the best outdoor experiences are a complete journey for the body and mind. That is why we are proud to offer a range of facilities to complement your open water swimming. 

Our handcrafted wooden saunas provide the perfect space to unwind and warm up after a cold dip in the lake. 

Ice Barrel Sessions

For those who want to take their cold therapy a step further, our unique ice barrels offer a more intense, controlled cold plunge. You can book a session for our sauna or ice barrel facilities to create your bespoke contrast therapy routine.

Our sessions, including those guided by our practitioner Alan, are designed to introduce you to these practices in a safe and supportive environment. Whether you are a seasoned wild swimmer or new to the world of open water, our team is dedicated to making sure you have a wonderful and safe time. 

You can learn more about our specific offerings, including our Intro to Open Water Swimming course, which is perfect for beginners, or even our Wim Hof Method Course for those who want to deepen their understanding of cold exposure and breathing techniques.

A Balanced Approach to Your Wellbeing

The most important thing to remember is that this is your experience. You should always listen to your body and take things at a pace that feels right. We recommend you stay hydrated, and if you have any pre-existing health conditions, it is always wise to consult a medical professional before starting a new routine. We have a set of lake rules and guidelines for our saunas to ensure everyone's safety.

After you have finished your session, we encourage you to spend some time unwinding at the cove. Our cafe offers warm drinks and snacks, allowing you to continue the rewarming process slowly and gently. The sense of community here is a big part of the experience, and there is nothing better than sharing a hot drink with a friend after an invigorating dip. The peaceful surroundings, the clear water, and the friendly faces all contribute to a feeling of deep calm and contentment. It’s a moment of pause, a chance to reconnect with yourself and with nature.

Book a sauna session and experience the benefits for yourself.