29/04/2026
There’s something pretty powerful about sinking into an onsen ♨️
The water here isn’t just hot, it’s mineral-rich, pulled up from deep underground. Depending on the spring, you’re soaking in things like sulphur, magnesium, calcium and sodium all known to support circulation, ease muscle tension and help calm the nervous system.
The heat (usually sitting around 38–42°C) gently raises your body temperature, which helps blood flow, relaxes tight muscles and can leave you feeling that full-body exhale you didn’t realise you needed.
And then there’s the rhythm of it
Hot → cold → rest → repeat.
Stepping out for a quick cold shower every 10–15 minutes and then returning to the heat creates a contrast effect your blood vessels constrict in the cold, then dilate again in the warmth. It’s like a pump for your circulation, and you walk away feeling clear, grounded and surprisingly energised.
It’s not about rushing it.
It’s about listening, soaking, breathing and letting your body do what it’s designed to do.
I’ll take a cold shower or bucket pour over an ice bath any day 🧊🚿🪣
Ice baths can sit stagnant and while cold slows bacteria, it doesn’t stop it. Add multiple bodies and time, and it’s not always the cleanest option.
Fresh, flowing, simple and just as effective.
You still get the benefits: circulation, reduced inflammation, nervous system reset.
Temp-wise, colder isn’t better:
• Aim for 10–15°C
• Men might tolerate slightly colder
• Women often respond just as well (or better) in that range
You don’t need to suffer in freezing water to get results.
