Is Cold Plunge the New Coffee? The Wellness Ritual That Boosts Metabolism

Cold plunge therapy, also known as an ice bath, is one of the fastest-growing wellness trends of 2025. What was once a recovery secret for professional athletes is now a global wellness ritual, embraced everywhere from Bondi Beach to Brooklyn rooftops. People are swapping their second coffee for a few minutes in icy water, chasing the same mental clarity as caffeine but with the added benefits of improved blood sugar control, enhanced metabolic health, and long-lasting energy.

A cold plunge involves immersing yourself in water that sits between ten and fifteen degrees for a short period of time. This sudden drop in temperature stimulates the nervous system, increases circulation, and activates thermogenesis  the body’s natural process of generating heat to maintain core temperature. Thermogenesis is linked to calorie burning and the activation of brown adipose tissue, both of which support metabolic health and may assist with hormone regulation.

The benefits extend beyond metabolism. Cold water immersion may influence hormones such as GLP 1, which is important for blood sugar regulation and appetite control. While research is still developing, early studies suggest that cold exposure could encourage a more stable glucose response after meals, which can help reduce energy crashes and maintain focus throughout the day. This makes it a powerful tool for anyone interested in balancing energy levels naturally.

Cold plunges are also becoming a cornerstone in post workout recovery routines. Athletes and wellness enthusiasts are using them to reduce inflammation, speed up muscle recovery, and promote circulation support. Many combine the cold plunge with a sauna session, creating a hot and cold contrast that improves blood flow and leaves the body feeling restored.

To make the most of a cold plunge, pairing it with proper hydration is key. A functional drink like Mrs Toddy’s Immunity+ Sparkling Tonic delivers healthy hydration with adaptogens such as ginger, lemongrass, and ginseng. These botanicals may assist with recovery, circulation, and digestion while supporting immunity. Unlike coffee or sugar-heavy sports drinks, functional tonics provide a natural energy boost without the crash, making them an ideal choice after a cold plunge.

Adding the cold plunge to your wellness routine does not require extreme dedication. Starting with thirty seconds to a minute is enough to activate many of the benefits, and building up gradually allows your body to adapt. Even a few short sessions each week can help you feel more energised, more focused, and more resilient.

Cold plunging is more than a trend  it is a ritual rooted in centuries-old wellness traditions. When combined with a clean hydration habit like Mrs Toddy’s Tonics, it becomes a lifestyle choice that supports blood sugar regulation, hormone balance, metabolic health, and overall vitality. Whether you are chasing performance recovery, mental clarity, or just the thrill of icy water, this simple yet powerful ritual might just become your new morning coffee.