Got Inflammation? Take the Plunge!

Nestled within lake country of Georgia, The Well at Lake Oconee offers inflammation reduction through Nordic sauna and cold plunge.  Often referred to as contrast therapy, the age-old tradition of sauna followed by a plunge into icy waters has been practiced for centuries.

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Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection, involving a complex interplay of immune cells and signaling molecules. While acute inflammation is a crucial part of the healing process, chronic inflammation can contribute to various health problems, including:

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• increased risk of chronic disease,

• joint pain and arthritis,

• digestive issues,

• immune system dysregulation,

• cardiovascular diseases,

• obesity and metabolic issues,

• dementia,

• neurological disorders,

• accelerated aging  

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Nordic Sauna offered at the Well begins with 12-15 minutes in our 160* custom sauna. As the body absorbs heat, blood vessels dilate, promoting circulation and increasing blood flow to the skin's surface. This process induces sweating, which serves as a natural detoxification mechanism, eliminating toxins and metabolic waste from the body.

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Research suggests that sauna reduces the inflammatory response by promoting the release of heat shock proteins (HSPs). These proteins help protect cells from stress-induced damage and regulate inflammation. Additionally, sauna sessions have been shown to increase levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines while reducing pro-inflammatory markers in the blood.

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Following the sauna session, members and guests at The Well spend 2-3 minutes in our nationally recognized Cold Plunges®.  This abrupt change in temperature induces vasoconstriction, causing blood vessels to narrow and reducing blood flow to the skin's surface.  The rapid transition from heat to cold triggers a physiological response known as the "cold shock response," which stimulates the release of noradrenaline and increases levels of anti-inflammatory mediators such as interleukin.  

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For the full benefits, members and guests at The Well alternate between the Nordic sauna and cold plunge 2-3 times for approximately an hour.

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