Cryo Chamber (Cryotherapy)
Cryotherapy is an advanced cold therapy treatment that exposes the body to extremely low temperatures (-80°F to -100°F) for 2-3 minutes. This triggers a natural healing response, reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and enhancing overall well-being.
What is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is a therapeutic technique that involves exposing the body to extreme cold temperatures for short durations to promote recovery, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall well-being. It is commonly used in sports medicine, rehabilitation, and wellness treatments. Cryotherapy works by constricting blood vessels, which reduces swelling and inflammation, followed by rewarming that flushes out metabolic waste and delivers oxygen and nutrients to tissues. At Elysian, our Articia Cryo System incorporates the latest technology.
Cryo Chamber
Cryo chamber therapy, or whole-body cryotherapy, offers several potential benefits, including muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, and improved mental health. It involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures, which can trigger a systemic response that may lead to these positive effects.
Answers to the most frequently asked questions
What should I wear during a Whole Body Cryotherapy session?
You’ll stay mostly undressed during your session, but certain areas must be protected. You’ll wear:
- Dry cotton underwear (or a sports bra and underwear for women)
- Thick socks
- Protective gloves
- Slippers or cryo-approved footwear
- A robe (which you’ll remove once inside the chamber)
We’ll provide all protective gear for you. Just make sure your skin is completely dry and free of lotions, oils, or sweat before your session. Jewelry and metal accessories should also be removed.
What is Whole Body Cryotherapy?
Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) is a wellness treatment where your body is briefly exposed to very cold air for about 1 to 3 minutes. You stand in a cryotherapy chamber wearing protective gear on your hands, feet, and sensitive areas. The extreme cold helps reduce inflammation, ease muscle and joint pain, speed up recovery, and boost energy. Many people also report better sleep and improved mood after regular sessions. It’s a quick, non-invasive treatment designed to help you feel your best.
What can I expect to happen during a Cryotherapy session?
When you arrive, you’ll change into the required protective gear (socks, gloves, underwear, slippers, and a robe). A staff member will guide you into the cryotherapy chamber, where you’ll remove your robe before the session begins. Once inside, cold air will circulate around your body for 1–3 minutes. It’s very chilly, but the session is quick. You might feel tingling, numbness, or a “pins and needles” sensation—this is normal. During this time your core body temperature will not change. Because the air does not contain any moisture, you will feel chilled but not uncomfortably cold. Your skin temperature will drop to an average of 50° F during the session but will increase back to normal within a few minutes of the session’s conclusion. After the session, you may feel energized, refreshed, and more alert. Most people find it invigorating and enjoy the mood boost that follows.
Is there anyone who should not use Whole Body Cryotherapy?
Yes, Whole Body Cryotherapy isn’t safe for everyone. You should avoid cryotherapy if you have:
- Severe heart conditions (like a recent heart attack or uncontrolled high blood pressure)
- Circulatory issues (such as Raynaud’s disease or peripheral vascular disease)
- Cold-related conditions (like cold urticaria or cold-induced asthma)
- Seizure disorders
- Severe anemia or blood clotting disorders
- An active infection or fever
- Pregnancy
This is not a complete list. Other medical conditions or medications may also make cryotherapy unsafe. Always complete the health screening honestly and talk to a staff member or your healthcare provider if you’re unsure whether cryotherapy is right for you.
How does Whole Body Cryotherapy help improve my metabolism?
Whole Body Cryotherapy may give your metabolism a temporary boost by exposing your body to extreme cold, which forces it to work harder to maintain a normal core temperature. This cold exposure:
- Activates brown fat, a type of fat that burns calories to produce heat
- Increases circulation, helping nutrients and oxygen move more efficiently through the body
- Triggers a mild stress response, which can stimulate hormone and metabolic activity
- May increase calorie burn for several hours after your session as your body warms up
While not a weight-loss treatment on its own, cryotherapy can support a healthy metabolism when combined with good nutrition and regular exercise.
How does Whole Body Cryotherapy Work?
Whole Body Cryotherapy works by briefly exposing your body to extremely cold air for 1 to 3 minutes. This sudden cold triggers your body’s natural “fight or flight” response, causing blood to move away from your skin and limbs toward your core to protect vital organs. Once you step out and your body warms back up, the blood rushes back to your muscles and skin, bringing oxygen and nutrients with it. This process may help:
- Reduce inflammation and pain
- Speed up muscle recovery
- Boost circulation and metabolism
- Support immune and nervous system function
- Elevate mood through endorphin release
It’s a quick, non-invasive way to help your body reset and recover naturally.
How often should I do Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy frequency depends on your goals, tolerance, and overall health. Some clients use it occasionally after hard workouts or travel, while others use it weekly as part of a recovery routine. Beginners should start conservatively and see how their body responds. Staff guidance is important, especially if you have circulation, nerve, or cardiovascular concerns.
Is Cryotherapy better before or after a workout?
Most people use cryotherapy after workouts to support recovery, reduce soreness, and feel refreshed. Using it before exercise may feel energizing, but it may not be ideal before every strength or performance session. If your goal is muscle growth, recovery timing should be planned carefully so cold exposure does not interfere with training adaptation.
Can Cryotherapy help sore muscles?
Yes, cryotherapy may help support muscle recovery and reduce perceived soreness or inflammation after workouts and physical activity. Many athletes and active adults use cold exposure as part of their recovery routine.
People commonly use cryotherapy to support:
- Muscle soreness relief
- Exercise recovery
- Temporary inflammation support
- Reduced physical fatigue
Research on whole-body cryotherapy is still developing, and results can vary by individual. It should be viewed as a supportive recovery service, not a cure for injuries or chronic pain.
What is the difference between Cryotherapy and a cold plunge?
Cryotherapy uses extremely cold air for a short session, while a cold plunge uses cold water immersion. Water transfers heat away from the body more efficiently than air, so the experience feels different even when temperatures are not as low. Both are used for recovery, but client preference, tolerance, and goals may determine the better fit.
Is Cryotherapy hard for first-time users?
Cryotherapy can feel intense at first, but sessions are short, and staff can guide you through the experience. First-time clients should focus on calm breathing, staying dry, and communicating any discomfort. The cold sensation usually peaks quickly, and many people feel alert, refreshed, or energized afterward.
Experience the Benefits of Cryotherapy Today!
Revitalize your body, recover faster, and boost your energy with Cryo Chamber Therapy at Elysian. Book your session now and feel the difference!