Experience the benefits
of hot & cold therapy in nature
The AIKA CYCLE is a wellness ritual based on the ancient practice of hot & cold therapy
There are four components of The AIKA Cycle
Hot · Cold · Rest · Repeat
Throughout The AIKA Cycle, we focus on balancing the nervous system, relaxing mind and body, and fostering connection and conversation in a small group gathering resulting in an experience that reinvigorates our mind and body leaving us happier, stronger, and healthier.
Each repetition is approximately 30 minutes in length depending on individual preference and experience with hot & cold therapy.
Scientific research suggests that maximum health benefits are derived from 4-5 repetitions for most people. The Immersive AIKA experience (3 hours) is designed to provide this experience.
step one
Hot
Warm up in our beautiful wood-FIRED SAUNA, designed and handCRAFTED in Squamish, BC
Allow the heat and humidity to penetrate deeply, awakening your mind and body and invoking an adaptive physiological response that provides numerous science-based health benefits.
Research indicates 15 minutes in the sauna is optimal per repetition with a maximum of 60 - 75 minutes total per week. Remember to keep rehydrating and do not consume alcohol.
STEP two
Cold
Safely immerse yourself in a cold plunge positioned adjacent to the hot sauna
Breathe deeply and relax as you cool down in a calm and controlled environment. The transition from hot to cold is a magical tool for the mind and body with many science-based health benefits.
Optimize Vascular System
Increase Hormone Levels
Enhance Thermogenesis
Flush Lymphatic System
Rebalance Autonomic Nervous System
Lower Blood Sugar
Improve Adrenal Function
Thyroid Support
Immune System Boost
Improve Sleep Quality
Increase Pain Tolerance
Reduce Inflammation
Lower Body Fat
The duration of time spent in the cold plunge is based entirely on personal preference and your experience with cold water immersion. While research indicates >3 minutes is optimal, health benefits can be realized with a quick dip.
STEP three
Rest
time spent resting is our favourite component of the Aika Cycle
You will feel a sense of euphoria and deep relaxation after the exhilaration of the hot and cold. This is a time for stillness, breath, and a deeper human connection with friends and loved ones. The benefits from the rest phase include:
Reduce Stress
Lower Anxiety
Promote Emotional Health
Enhance Self-Awareness
STEP four
Repeat
feel fresh and reinvigorated
Research indicates that repeating the cycle three or four times will maximize health benefits and leave your mind and body feeling fresh and reinvigorated.
Longer cumulative exposure to hot & cold temperatures
Deeper level of relaxation achieved
Push beyond your comfort zone to unlock your greatest potential