In 2021, a group of scientists concluded that “cold-water immersion is a well-tolerated therapy that is capable of significantly improving mood in young, fit, and healthy individuals.” But we’re not all 21 and willing to participate in UCSB's annual “The Plunge,” where participants jump into the icy Pacific Ocean in support of the Marine Conservation Project.
At the risk of sounding luxe, I’d rather get my endorphins in a private and controlled environment. But, a New Year mood boost, improved blood circulation, and reduced muscle inflammation sound fab. Immerse yourself in this wellness trend with these purveyors that give you the experience, sans sand.
Soul Care Studio and Sauna
In the heart of downtown, Soul Care Studio and Sauna's private plunges are ozone-purified and set to a brisk 45-degrees. “If you’re a first-timer, getting to one minute is a good goal,” co-owner Ben Reden says. “For people who have [cold plunge] as a routine, they can do 3-4 minutes, but it takes practice.” 15-minute sessions can be booked or bundled with a membership including other treatments (infrared sauna, somadome, and halotherapy). @soulcaresb
1101 Anacapa St. #100
Acorn & Oak
It took owner Sean Yeager-Diamond a year to find the ideal space. “This is Santa Barbara,” he says, “I wanted to be outside.” Yeager-Diamond's outdoor garden retreat treats the body and mind, offering both traditional and infrared saunas along with four cold plunges. When you put your body under the kind of stress that happens when alternating heat (a “positive stress”) and cold, which releases dopamine, it can have physical and emotional effects. “You’re overcoming either fear of extreme cold or heat,” Yeager-Diamond adds. @acornandoaksb
4404 Hollister Ave. #A
Santa Barbara Ice Bath
A daily dip in an ice chest following a neck injury led Rob Colby to create eye-pleasing, functional plunges for the home. With a studio in West Beach, co-founders Colby and James Newman invite clients to visit and test drive their three designs, each built meticulously. “We thought of every detail to make your experience better,” Newman says. From the dimension and height of each seat to inflows and outflows, they can create "a functional, beautiful centerpiece in your yard.” @sbicebath
130 Los Aguajes Ave.