Three Surprising Wellness Practices for Better Health and Calm
The Wellness Perks of Sauna and Cold Plunge Therapy
This year, I’ve been diving into a cold plunge and sauna routine, and the benefits for both mind and body are undeniable. Here’s a quick look at why these contrasting practices have become wellness staples—and what science says is actually happening beneath the surface.
Cold plunges deliver an immediate jolt, activating the sympathetic nervous system and triggering a release of norepinephrine, a hormone known to reduce inflammation and boost mental clarity. This exposure to cold has been shown to accelerate muscle recovery, improve metabolism, and even stimulate brown fat, which helps with calorie burning.
Saunas, on the other hand, provide a heat-induced relaxation that boosts cardiovascular health and triggers “heat shock proteins”—molecules that support cellular repair and resilience. When combined, the sauna-to-cold-plunge contrast stimulates blood flow, with heat sending it to the skin’s surface and cold drawing it back to the body’s core. Together, they create a cycle that enhances circulation, reduces stress, and even supports immune health.
So if you’re looking to optimize recovery and add a mental boost to your wellness routine, cold plunge and sauna sessions might just be your new best friends.
This issue is presented by Elahni:
Elahni is New York’s first wellness speakeasy, a new kind of social experience complete with ice baths, traditional Finnish sauna, adaptogenic tonic bar, and curated library. We offer a signature Temperature Contrast session, which involves an intentional protocol centered around the sauna & ice bath, adequate hydration, and breathing best practices.
3 Reasons to Try Forest Bathing for Better Health and Calm
After spending three days hiking in the lush forests of Woodstock, New York, I felt an energy and calm that stayed with me all week. This feeling isn’t just in my head—“forest bathing,” or immersing oneself in nature, has proven benefits for both mental and physical health.
Here are three big reasons to try it out:
1. Reduces Stress: Studies show that forest environments can lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), helping you feel calmer and more grounded.
2. Boosts Immunity: Trees release natural compounds called phytoncides, which have been shown to enhance immune function by increasing natural killer cell activity.
3. Improves Focus: Time in nature can improve concentration and mental clarity. The combination of fresh air, green scenery, and movement can help restore focus in ways urban settings just can’t.
Whether it’s a weekend in the woods or a quick walk in the park, a dose of nature is one of the simplest ways to recharge.
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Why I Mouth Tape When I Sleep (and Why You Might Want to Try It, Too
After reading Breath by James Nestor last year, I started experimenting with a simple sleep hack that’s made a big difference: mouth taping. Although it may sound unusual, mouth taping—placing a small piece of tape over your lips before bed—promotes nasal breathing, which has been shown to have numerous benefits for sleep quality and overall health.
Here’s why I’ve made mouth taping part of my nightly routine:
1. Better Oxygenation: Breathing through the nose allows your body to produce nitric oxide, a molecule that helps open blood vessels and improve oxygen flow. This can lead to deeper, more restorative sleep.
2. Reduced Snoring: For many people, snoring is linked to mouth breathing. Keeping the mouth closed encourages nasal breathing, which can reduce or even eliminate snoring and lead to quieter, more restful nights (for you and anyone nearby).
3. Enhanced Sleep Quality: Mouth breathing can often cause dry mouth, sore throat, and fragmented sleep. By keeping the mouth closed, I wake up feeling more refreshed and avoid the uncomfortable effects of dehydration.
If you’re considering giving mouth taping a try, be sure to use a skin-friendly tape, and start small. As strange as it may sound, this simple habit could make a huge difference in how you sleep and feel the next day.
Elevate Your Well-being
Ready to elevate your wellness journey? I’m offering personalized one-on-one consulting to help you achieve your health goals. Improve your diet, boost energy, and find daily balance with my guidance.
Email hello@jamieliveswell.com for more information and to schedule your consultation. Let’s create a healthier, happier you!
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