If you’re interested in the benefits of ice baths and cold immersion, we’ve gathered some of the research conducted in the field:
Supporting Studies – Ice Baths and Cold Immersion:

Study Title:
Modulation of Pain Sensitivity by a Hyperventilatory Breathing Exercise and Cold Exposure Training

Study Conclusion:
A breathing practice characterized by cycles of vigorous hyperventilation combined with prolonged breath retention reduces pain perception. Moreover, cold exposure training may further decrease pain.
An effect that can also be beneficial in coping with autoimmune diseases.

Research Link:
Journal: Journal of Pain Research, June 2023

Study Title:
The Effects of Cold Exposure Training and a Breathing Exercise on the Inflammatory Response in Humans: A Pilot Study

Study Conclusion:
The combination of cold exposure training and a breathing exercise most strongly attenuates the in vivo inflammatory response in healthy young men. The study demonstrates that the immunomodulatory effects of the intervention can be reliably reproduced, paving the way for clinical trials.

Research Link:

Journal: Psychosomatic Medicine, May 2022

Study Title:
Scientific Evidence-Based Effects of Hydrotherapy on Various Systems of the Body

Study Conclusions:
Based on the available literature, this review indicates that hydrotherapy has been widely used to improve immunity and manage pain, CHF, MI, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, asthma, PD, AS, RA, OAK, FMS, anal disorders, fatigue, anxiety, obesity, hypercholesterolemia, hyperthermia, labor, and more.

Research Link:

Journal: North American Journal of Medical Sciences, May 2014

Study Title:
The Positive Effects of Combined Breathing Techniques and Cold Exposure on Perceived Stress

Study Conclusion:
The WHM (Wim Hof Method) can be used to reduce the stress and tension people experience.
The study found that combined breathing techniques and cold exposure produced the greatest positive effect.
Since WHM is based on techniques known from other contexts, such as yogic pranayama breathing or cold water exposure in hydrotherapy, our findings may also serve as additional evidence of their effectiveness.
For individuals seeking to reduce stress, it is recommended to practice exercises combining breathing techniques and cold exposure.
In conclusion, our study shows that exercises constituting the WHM (also used similarly in traditional mindfulness schools) are simple yet effective means to improve mental well-being, suitable for a broad audience.

Research Link:

Journal:
Current Psychology, October 2022