CHILL OUT for Optimal Wellness

I’m someone who loves social media and am greatly influenced to buy or try things that the experts I follow recommend. And in the last two years it’s been hard to ignore how many personal development superstars have been talking about how they take cold showers or practice cold plunges daily— health claims range from regulating the nervous systems to building up mental toughness and as a reminder that we can do hard things. Honestly, filling my bathtub with ice and submerging myself in it for five-to-ten minuets sounded just awful. But I’m happy to say I found a much better way to try cold therapy at Sloco.

I signed up for a cryotherapy session, having no idea what to expect. If you’re like me and haven’t heard about cryotherapy, it basically involves exposing the body to extremely low temperatures for a short period of time, usually about two to three minutes. Sloco Owner, Natasha Prybyla shared, “Even though we had been offering Cryotherapy since 2019, we doubled down on our investment in 2020 to bring better technology to SLO County during a time where people really needed something that could boost their mood, relieve pain, and improve their health.”

Upon arriving, I was greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable staff member who explained the process to me. I was given a robe, gloves, and I brought my UGG boots to keep my feet warm. They gave me headphones and

BY PADEN HUGHES PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK PAVLAKIS >>

allowed me to pick a song to listen to from my phone while I went into the icy chamber. I was guided on how cold I wanted to take it and what duration I wanted to try. I chose the intermediate level.

The chamber itself was sleek and modern, with a large window so that I could see out into the room. It was covered in frost and when they opened the door fluffy, white, snow-like ice floated out of it. I hyped myself up and stepped inside and was instructed to remove my robe, leaving me in my bathing suit, UGGs, and gloves.

The chamber was filled with nitrogen gas, which lowered the temperature to around -200 degrees Fahrenheit. The sensation was intense but not painful. I felt a tingling sensation all over my body, but it was also refreshing and energizing. I focused on my breath and then started to close my eyes and imagine I was spring skiing in Tahoe in a bikini. Having done that before, it was as close to reality as I could dream up and it made the experience more playful and fun.

After just two-and-a-half minutes, the session was over. I put my robe back on and was taken to a private area where I was able to warm up, relax, and change back into my clothes. The entire experience in and out was only about fifteen minutes, but I felt invigorated and rejuvenated.

So, what are the health benefits of cryotherapy? There are thought to be many. First and foremost, it can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This is especially beneficial for athletes or people who suffer from chronic pain. Cryotherapy can also help improve circulation, boost the immune system, and improve overall skin health. It has also been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety and improve mood.

To find out more about Sloco’s offereings check out their website at slocohealth.com.