The Cold Heart Truth about Cold Water, Recovery & Cardiac Safety

Dear Thermalist Members,

If you’ve followed my work for a while, you know I often say: "The cold is a short term stressor — but a long-term de-stressor."

But in the midst of cold plunging becoming a global trend, I find it essential that we go beyond anecdote and wellness hype — and into the science. That’s what today’s deep dive is all about.

Two recent 2024 studies — one out of Switzerland, the other from Indonesia — offer a fascinating, timely look at cold water immersion (CWI) through the lens of cardiovascular safety and post-exercise recovery.

Let’s break them down, layer by layer.