Does Heat Therapy Lead to Better Outcomes in Depression symptoms than Cold Exposure?
Does Heat Therapy Lead to Better Outcomes in Depression symptoms than Cold Exposure?
Did you know that heat therapy, known as hyperthermia, has been used for centuries to treat various illnesses and promote overall health and well-being? In recent years, it has gained attention for its potential benefits in treating depression.
While cold exposure has also been studied in mental health, let’s see if research suggests that heat therapy may be more effective in managing symptoms of depression.
I don’t know about you, but I’m curious about this comparison.
But before that, let’s fully understand the meaning of heat therapy.
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What is Heat Therapy?
Heat therapy involves exposing the body to heat through external sources such as saunas or hot baths or internally through methods like fever-inducing drugs. This increase in body temperature triggers a variety of responses in the body, including the release of endorphins and other feel-good hormones.
Heat therapy has been used for centuries in cultures worldwide for its therapeutic benefits, including relaxation and pain relief.
Does body temperature have a role in mental health?
Role of Body Temperature in Mental Health
Before we dive into the specific benefits of heat therapy for depression, it's essential to understand the role of body temperature in mental health.
The human body has a natural circadian rhythm that regulates our sleep-wake cycle and many other physiological processes. This rhythm is closely linked to our core body temperature, which fluctuates throughout.