Chill Out with Cryo Miami

Cold therapy is emerging as a popular health trend. Think about today’s conversations surrounding cold plunges, ice baths, and cryotherapy. While the latter isn’t new — Japanese rheumatologist Toshima Yamaguchi developed cryotherapy in the 1970s and introduced it to the world in the ’80s and ’90s — it has gained traction as a wellness therapy. On TikTok alone, the word “cryotherapy” has been viewed more than 459 million times, with “cryo facial” following close behind.

Research suggests cryotherapy has various health benefits, including metabolic and heart health support, reduced inflammation, and more. Fascinated, I decided to give it a chance at the new Cryo Miami in Coral Gables.

After filling out paperwork, I toured the space, including the cryotherapy chamber and rooms for infrared saunas and localized cryotherapy treatments, like cryo facials. After the tour, I was ready to get dressed — AKA undressed. I wore my bathing suit, as per directions, and Cryo Miami supplied warm socks, slippers, a facial covering, and a robe. You also get a headband with built-in speakers so you don’t have to endure the cold in silence.

After a last-second pep talk, it was time to enter the chamber — already set to a stunning -110°F. No turning back now! I took off my robe, hit “play” on the iPad, and tuned into Beyonce’s “Break My Soul,” hoping the next few minutes wouldn’t do just that. I walked into what I can only describe as a massive freezer. I stood, slightly bouncing to the beat, waiting as the two LED light rods in front of me slowly turned from blue to white — the indication of how much time was left. Pro tip: don’t watch.

It was the longest three minutes of my life. I had to dance through the freezing sensation, which grew worse. My elbows and knees were especially agitated, which I later learned was because of their boniness. Tiny speckles of ice began forming on my arm hair, and I lightly jogged in place to keep myself focused. At this point, my body was going into fight or flight mode, pulling blood from my extremities into my core for warmth, according to Cryo Miami manager Nadia Bacchus. As you step out, your blood flows back through the body, full of nutrients which will aid in a faster recovery process.

Time seemed to go by faster once I realized I’d made it halfway. I felt invigorated and mentally strong. After three long minutes, I opened the door, proud to have completed my first session. I then lay in the infrared sauna for 45 minutes, which has additional detoxification benefits and reduces inflammation.

Cryotherapy should be used two to three times a week for optimal results, mirroring the consistency of a workout routine. According to Bacchus, maintaining the practice is crucial for sustained benefits. The verdict? Cryotherapy is not for the faint of heart, but as a Florida transplant who now gets cold in under 70-degree weather, I’d happily step back into the chamber to become both mentally stronger and physically healthier.

RELATED: Lipping Off — Achieving the Natural Look + more beauty, health, and wellness stories here.

Cryo Miami
430 S. Dixie Hwy #8
305.456.0684
cryo-miami.com