Cryotherapy: A cold experience designed for well-being

Cryotherapy has gone from being a passing trend to establishing itself as a key experience in contemporary wellness.

When applied in a controlled manner and with the right design, cold is no longer just a contrast but an effective tool for recovering, activating and balancing the body and mind. In a well-designed spa or wellness center, cryotherapy provides that “wow” effect that users clearly remember. 

What is cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy is a treatment based on the controlled application of cold for wellness, recovery and activation purposes. It can be performed in different ways (locally, on the body, in a cabin, in contrast circuits), but its essence is the same: to stimulate the body through cold in a safe and planned manner.

What does cryotherapy consist of within a wellness circuit?

Within a circuit, cryotherapy is understood as a contrast station. In other words, it is strategically placed to alternate with heat, steam or warm water, creating a more complete experience.

In a typical wellness circuit, cold:

• Helps to “close” the experience after heat
• Promotes a feeling of lightness
• Provides immediate activation
• Reinforces the concept of a carefully designed (not improvised) circuit

In addition, cryotherapy has a very interesting value from the point of view of the customer experience: it marks a “before and after”. In a well-designed circuit, the user remembers that moment perfectly. And if they remember it, they talk about it. And if they talk about it, the spa gains reputation.

How to integrate body cryotherapy into a complete spa experience

For cryotherapy to really work (and not be perceived as an uncomfortable step), it is important to integrate it with logic, timing and transitions.

An example of a coherent journey:

1. Gentle heat (sauna or steam bath) to prepare the body.
2. Warm shower to adapt sensations.
3. Cryotherapy (cold station) in brief, controlled exposure.
4. Rest area (relaxation) to stabilise.
5. Hydromassage or warm water to finish comfortably.

Some key points for user enjoyment are:

• Clear signage and recommendations for use
• Suggested times (without imposing)
• Personalisation according to level (beginner vs. experienced)
• A pleasant exit (towels, warm lighting, nearby relaxation area)

Benefits of cryotherapy for the body and mind

Cryotherapy stands out for offering very “noticeable” results from the first session, something especially valuable in wellness experiences. Although each person experiences it differently, it is common for users to describe clear and immediate sensations:

• A feeling of recovery and rest after exertion or muscle tension.
• Immediate activation: the cold awakens and revitalises.
• General well-being thanks to the contrast and the feeling of “reset”.
• Reduction of heaviness after heat, training or an intense day.
• Positive mental effect: clarity, energy and a feeling of control (much appreciated in self-care routines).

In terms of experience, cryotherapy provides something key: a memorable ending or turning point within the circuit.

How to combine cryotherapy with other water experiences

Well-planned cryotherapy shines even brighter when combined with water. The secret lies in contrast, but also in rhythm: it is not about stringing together meaningless stimuli, but about building a sequence that the body understands and appreciates.

Combinations that work very well:

• Cryotherapy + contrast baths: quick, simple and very effective alternation.
• Cryotherapy + hydromassage circuit: cold to activate, warm water to relax.
• Cryotherapy + foot bath: ideal for beginners; localized cold is more accessible.
• Cryotherapy + sauna: the classic hot-cold contrast that many users seek.
• Cryotherapy + relaxation area with water (water beds/mild humid environment): premium transition, no “break” in the experience.

For a commercial approach, this mix allows you to create experience packs: “recovery”, “energy”, “anti-stress”, “athletes”, etc.

Key points for good cryotherapy area design

Design is everything: cold can be a luxury… or a turn-off. To make cryotherapy attractive, safe and profitable, it is important to consider:

• Location in the circuit: close to warmth and with a logical transition (no endless cold corridors).
• Thermal comfort all around: the environment should not be unpleasant; the cold should be “contained” within the experience.
• Privacy and sense of security: clear spaces, no disorientation, with visible instructions.
• Suitable materials: non-slip, moisture-resistant, easy to maintain.
• Lighting and atmosphere: fresh and clean tones, but welcoming; the cold does not have to feel “clinical”.
• Capacity and user flow: design intended to avoid waiting and maintain the pace of the tour.
• Options for different profiles: gradual intensity or alternatives (localized cold) for beginners.

Well-integrated cryotherapy not only adds to well-being: it elevates the overall perception of the spa, increases satisfaction and helps differentiate the offering from more conventional options. And when a circuit is well designed, the user does not feel like they are “going through stations”: they feel like they are experiencing a meaningful journey. That is the kind of experience that builds loyalty.