Ice cave
History and tradition: where does the ice grotto come from?
The idea of the ice cave goes back to the traditions of natural ice caves and historical cold rooms. Even in ancient times, the Romans appreciated the effects of cold: In Roman thermal baths, the frigidarium - a cold room - was an integral part of bathing culture and was used to cool down after bathing.
The alternation of heat and cold has also been firmly anchored in Nordic sauna culture for centuries. In Finland , people traditionally bathe in ice-cold water or cool off in the snow after a sauna session.
Modern ice grottos in spa and wellness areas are based on these examples and combine old traditions with modern findings on the effects of cold on health and well-being.
Characteristics: What characterizes an ice grotto?
With classic ice grottos, the name says it all: they are actually covered in ice and snow. Other variants, however, only imitate the winter landscape with the help of appropriate decorative elements. A cold chamber can be modeled on a natural ice cave. However, it can also be furnished in a practical and functional way. Temperatures are a maximum of 3 to 5 degrees Celsius with a humidity of less than 10 percent.
The most famous ice caves in the world
Forms: What subtypes of ice caves are there?
Ice caves are often compared with other refrigeration facilities:
- Cold chambers: Rooms used for medical purposes with temperatures down to -110 °C
- Frigidarium: Ancient Roman cold bath
- Cold rooms in spas: Often less elaborately designed than ice grottos
Procedure & rules: How does an ice grotto work?
A stay in an ice cave serves as a targeted cold treatment after sauna or heat therapy. The temperature is constantly between 3 and 5 degrees Celsius with low humidity (less than 10%). The visit usually lasts a few minutes to stimulate the circulation and gently cool the body.
Typical procedures and rules in an ice cave:
- Preparation: after the sauna session, briefly cool down the body (e.g. with cold showers) and then enter the ice grotto.
- Stay: Stay in the ice grotto for 2-5 minutes to enjoy the cold.
- Behavior: Keep calm, do not run or jump. Swimwear, towel or bathrobe are customary.
- After your stay: Dry your body and rest if necessary or continue with heat treatments.
Indications: How does a stay in an ice grotto work?
The low temperatures have a positive effect on physical complaints such as muscle tension, joint pain and inflammation . In combination with a sauna session or other heat treatments, the change from hot to cold stimulates the circulation and metabolism.
Contraindications: What side effects does a stay in an ice cave have
A visit to the ice grotto is not recommended for people with
- Cardiovascular diseases
- vascular diseases
- Skin diseases or open wounds
Conclusion
The most important facts about the ice cave at a glance
- 1. Cold treatments can strengthen the immune system and relieve joint and muscle pain.
- 2. A stay in the ice grotto is not recommended for people with cardiovascular problems or vascular diseases.
- 3. Cryotherapy combined with heat treatments is particularly effective.
- 4. Spa etiquette applies in ice caves.
FAQ - Further questions about the ice cave
The Eisriesenwelt Werfen in Austria is considered the largest natural ice cave in the world. In Germany, the natural ice grotto in Untersberg near Marktschellenberg is particularly well-known.
Swimwear, bathrobe or towel are recommended.
A stay of a few minutes, maximum 5-10 minutes, is usual.