I grew up in the tropics, where the idea of being cold was something to avoid at all costs. There wasn’t even a distinct word for ‘snow’ in my mother tongue—”manchu” covers fog, ice, and snow all at once. My relationship with the cold was simple: I hated it. I never understood why anyone would willingly seek it out.
And yet, here I am—living in Bend, Oregon, building a contrast therapy lounge that encourages people to embrace the cold. Not just tolerate it, but actively lean into it. Because at some point in my journey, nature showed me just how powerful the cold could be for muscle recovery, relaxation, and mental clarity.
The Science of Hot & Cold
The practice of alternating between hot and cold—known as contrast therapy or hot-cold immersion therapy—has been used for centuries, from ancient Roman bathhouses to Nordic cold plunges. Today, contrast therapy is a growing trend in wellness and recovery circles, with benefits backed by science. The benefits aren’t just anecdotal; modern science backs it up:
Boosts Circulation – Moving between hot tubs and cold plunge pools helps blood vessels expand and contract, improving overall circulation and cardiovascular health.
Speeds Recovery – Athletes have long used cold plunges to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness post-workout, shortening recovery times between workouts.
Strengthens Immunity – Studies suggest that regular cold exposure can increase white blood cell production, improving immune function.
Sharpens Mental Resilience – There’s something about stepping into icy water that forces you to be present, to control your breath, to lean into discomfort and come out stronger on the other side.
More Than Just a Wellness Trend
Living in Bend, I’ve learned that nature has its own way of teaching. After spending years skiing, hiking, and soaking in wild hot springs, I started to see the balance in everything. The rivers are just as important as the mountains. The cold is just as transformative for recovery and full body wellness as the heat.
That’s the philosophy behind Flux Lounge—bringing a little bit of that wild, natural balance indoors. A space where people can reset, recover, and reconnect with themselves and the community around them. A place to experience the rush of the cold and the soothing embrace of the heat, all in one setting.
Why You Should Try It
If you’re skeptical about cold plunging, I get it. I used to be, too. But just like the first time I strapped on skis at 30 or jumped into a cold alpine lake, I realized that the things we resist the most often bring the greatest rewards.
So whether you’re looking for muscle recovery, improved circulation, reduced inflammation, better sleep, or mental clarity, stepping into the cold could be your next wellness game-changer. It might just change your life.
Join the Conversation
Want to share your cold plunge experience? Tag us on social @fluxloungebend and use #ColdPlunge #ContrastTherapy #HotColdImmersion #WellnessJourney #Recovery #BendOregon #FluxLounge.
