We’re getting our facts from the experts. We’ve asked Dr. Christine Krall to weigh in on some contrast therapy benefits, below. You can also reference her cited research studies related to metabolism, immune system, recovery and pain, cognitive function, anxiety and cardiovascular health.
A simple, intentional rhythm designed to bring your nervous system into ease.
Our thermal cycle is a two-hour sequence of heat, cold, and rest. It's a time-tested ritual, designed to support nervous system regulation. Shift into discovery mode and move intuitively between temperatures. Allow the body to soften, give rhythm to your breath, and welcome a state change across both body and mind.

Contrast therapy & how it works
STEP 1. Begin With a Cleansing Shower
A quick shower prepares your body for the journey and helps us maintain the purity of the space.
Rinsing away oils and lotions allows heat to penetrate more evenly, supports your skin, and honors shared spa etiquette.
This small ritual marks the shift from the outside world into your reset.
STEP 2. Explore the Saunas
Our saunas are built by hand in Asheville, each with its own character, temperature, and sensation.
- Warm + Social: bright, expansive spaces where you're surrounded by others without expectation.
- Dark + Intimate: moodier rooms for a deeper, more private drop-in.
- Dry Heat or Gentle Humidity: curated to offer different levels of intensity.
Spend time in whichever space speaks to your body that day. There’s no right way, only your way.
STEP 3. Cool Down: Rinse + Plunge
A cool rinse before the plunge closes your pores, resets your skin, and keeps our plunge water clean for all guests. Then, enter the cold plunge at your own pace. The first moment may feel intense, that’s normal. It’s also where the nervous system begins its reset.
Try this simple breath pattern to anchor yourself:
5 seconds in, 5 seconds out.
We suggest 3–5 minutes in the plunge, but always listen to your body. Our facilities offer multiple plunges ranging from 45°–55°F, so you can choose what feels right for your system.
STEP 4. Relax, Rehydrate, Repeat
Rest is where the magic integrates.
Settle onto our heated stone furniture by Galanter & Jones, let your breath slow, and enjoy the warmth returning to the body.
Stay hydrated throughout your experience, you’ll find:
- Water filling stations
- Tea
- Kombucha
- Sparkling beverages
Move through heat, cold, and rest as many times as your body wants during your two hours. The rhythm is yours but most find 2-3 rounds to be the sweet spot.
"I went on a fully booked Monday morning and it was peaceful and quiet the whole two hours. The whole place is really clean, has great feel, and the staff is super friendly."
"The staff is so friendly and the experience left me thirsty for more."
"While Hot, Cold, Relax treatments are relatively new in the U.S., this place makes it feel completely accessible."
