Imagine stepping into a chamber chilled to a staggering -130°F for just five minutes a day. It sounds like a scene from a sci-fi movie, but according to a recent study, this intense cold exposure could be the secret to better sleep and a brighter mood.
A team of researchers from the University of Montreal and the University of Poitiers has uncovered how cryotherapy—a treatment that immerses the body in subzero temperatures—can enhance sleep quality. Their findings, published in the December issue of Cryobiology, reveal that a short daily burst of icy conditions can significantly improve the most restorative phase of sleep: slow-wave sleep.
The Experiment: A Cold Wake-Up Call for Sleep
The study enlisted 20 healthy young adults, averaging 23 years old, to undergo a five-day cryostimulation routine. Dressed in nothing but their underwear, socks, Croc-style shoes, and mittens, these brave volunteers faced the frigid chamber for five minutes daily. The results? Their slow-wave sleep increased by an average of 7.3 minutes during the first two sleep cycles on the nights following the cryotherapy sessions.
Lead researcher Olivier Dupuy, an associate professor at the University of Montreal, emphasized that this isn’t a one-time fix. The benefits appeared only after five consecutive sessions, meaning consistency is key.
Women Reap More Rewards
Interestingly, the study revealed a gender disparity: women experienced greater benefits from the icy treatment, both in terms of improved sleep and elevated mood. While the participants were all healthy individuals, researchers suggest cryotherapy could be particularly beneficial for people struggling with insomnia or chronic sleep difficulties.
The potential impact is significant. According to the CDC, nearly 15% of U.S. adults reported trouble falling asleep, while nearly 18% had difficulty staying asleep as of 2020. If cryotherapy can provide even a modest improvement, it could offer a natural alternative to medication for many.
More Than Just Sleep
Cryotherapy’s perks extend beyond slumber. Participants also reported enhanced psychological well-being, including reduced anxiety and improved mood. Again, women seemed to gain the most from these mental health benefits.
For athletes, cryotherapy is already a popular recovery tool. Dupuy noted that it could also aid those with chronic inflammation or even mild dementia, especially when combined with physical activity.
Beyond the Chill
Although cryotherapy’s effects on ailments like pain relief, immune support, and collagen production are still being explored, Dupuy is certain about one thing: “This is not a placebo effect.”
As research continues, this frosty therapy may hold the key to unlocking better health and wellness for a wide range of people. Whether you’re an athlete seeking recovery, a sleep-deprived individual, or someone looking for a mood boost, five minutes of cold might be worth braving.
