REDISCOVERING THE ANCIENT TRADITION OF ICE BATHING

Cold plunging is more than just a trend – its roots reach back over 1,000 years to the Vikings. Today, this ancient wellness ritual is offered as a guided practice in a natural stone tub at the Nature Hotel Lüsnerhof in South Tyrol. “Ice bath therapy is a powerful tool for self-discovery,” explains expert Rens Haen, who designed the ritual. “It’s not only about cold exposure, but about mindfulness, inner strength, and conscious breathing.”

Why Try an Ice Bath?

Many wonder why anyone would voluntarily step into ice-cold water.
“For me, it’s about courage, curiosity, and the experience of self-control,” says Rens. “The cold is a teacher – it shows us how to respond consciously to stress instead of reacting automatically. Those who embrace this practice develop resilience, calmness, and inner strength.”

The Power of Breathwork in Cold Plunge Therapy

When combined with breathing exercises and meditation, the benefits of ice bathing deepen. Conscious breathwork helps you remain calm in the cold, focus your thoughts, and strengthen the connection between body and mind. “You learn to trust, let go, and enjoy the experience with full awareness,” Rens explains.

Guided Ice Bath Sessions in South Tyrol

At the Lüsnerhof wellness retreat in South Tyrol, guests are guided step by step by trained experts. Each session begins with meditation and guided breathwork to prepare for the cold immersion. This is followed by the personal plunge into the natural stone ice tub – under safe supervision.

“It’s a moment that words can hardly capture. You simply have to experience it yourself,” says Rens.

Cold Plunge Benefits for Body & Mind

The synergy of ice bath therapy and mindfulness creates a holistic wellness experience:

• Mental clarity & focus – Cold water instantly grounds you in the present; meditation sharpens awareness.
• Stress regulation & nervous system training – Cold exposure strengthens resilience and emotional balance.
• Breath & body awareness – Breathwork stabilizes the heartbeat, calms the mind, and heightens body perception.
• Immune system & circulation – Cold plunges strengthen immunity; meditation restores balance.
• Discipline & inner strength – Each session builds patience, focus, and self-confidence.

Who Is Ice Bathing For?

Cold exposure is suitable for healthy adults. Caution is recommended for people with high blood pressure, heart conditions, epilepsy, pregnancy, or serious pre-existing health issues.

Tips for Beginners in Cold Plunge Training

• Duration: 1–5 minutes depending on temperature
• Temperature: start gradually, from around 15°C downward
• Goal: mindful immersion, not endurance
• Rule of thumb: 1 minute per °C (e.g., 10°C = max. 10 minutes)

“Short, controlled sessions are more effective than extreme durations,” Rens emphasizes. This ensures a safe and sustainable introduction to the practice of cold water immersion.

Ice Bath & Meditation: A Path to Holistic Wellbeing

At Nature Hotel Lüsnerhof in South Tyrol, ice bathing with meditation is more than a wellness ritual:

“It strengthens body and mind, providing energy, focus, and inner balance,” explains Rens Haen, expert at Lüsnerhof. Guests who embrace the cold discover it as a powerful teacher – unlocking clarity, health, and mindfulness for everyday life.

Discover all upcoming ice bath sessions now in the Lüsnerhof WEEKLY PROGRAM.