Hydrotherapy for Health and Resilience

Cold water therapy or hydrotherapy (Ishnaan) for health and resilience has been practiced since ancient times. Gaining popularity in the west through the similar ice-bath, the benefits of these practices are often experienced by those willing to go the extra mile for their health and wellness. But is hydrotherapy for everyone?

It is not uncommon for lovers of yoga and sadhana to begin their day with a dip in a cold body of water, shower or bath, as part of a spiritual practice. My first experience with Ishnaan (hydrotherapy) was in the middle of winter during yoga teacher training, as part of my morning sadhana (before sunrise). And I can say with complete honestly, the hesitation was immense! However, after taking the plunge I could instantly see and feel the benefits of this practice. I felt warm (yes, warm!), fresh, and invigorated.

Yogic teachings share the benefits of cold water on the body to be many, such as radiant skin, a healthy blood flow, glandular secretion, and organ health, as well as an in-built resilience to the cold. However it is not recommended during pregnancy or menstruation, during a fever, or with heart disease (KRI, 2010).

In the fitness industry, the benefits of cold water and ice-immersion have been suggested to aide muscle recovery for athletes, as well as reduce swelling during injury. Other suggestions include feeling more alert, mood elevation, and even a boost to immunity. It is often not recommended to practice cold water and ice-immersion when prone to cardiac issues or with a diagnosed autoimmune disorder, and hypothermia and hyperventilation are also advised to be monitored in addition to doctor approval before participation (Bowman, S., 2024; Margerison, A., 2023).

Being within the heart of Winter in Australia right now, I am most certain the thought of cold water on the body in the morning will receive a resounding hell no! But for those living in the northern hemisphere it may be the perfect time to explore the benefits of hydrotherapy.

For those wanting to come a little deeper and learn specific methods for practicing Ishnaan, join me for the Kundalini Aquarian Sadhana program, with updated content launching August 8th. Go to https://www.thesunshinechannel.com.au/programs for details.

In love and health, Nicole x

Nicole Edwards is a Mental Health Therapist, Mentor, Yoga, Meditation, and Sound Teacher from the Gold Coast region of Australia. Contact TheSunshineChannel@outlook.com to connect or book a 1:1 session, class, program, or workshop, at https://thesunshinechannel.com.au today.

References

Bowman, S. (2024). The Science Behind Ice Baths for Recovery. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/healthy-aging/the-science-behind-ice-baths-for-recovery/

Kundalini Research Institute (KRI). (2010). The Aquarian Teacher.

Margerison, A. (2023). Cold Water Therapy: A Guide to Ice Baths and Cold Showers. Retrieved from https://www.bupa.com.au/healthlink/mental-health-wellbeing/selfcare/cold-water-therapy-a-guide-to-ice-baths-and-cold-showers