Another experience that is offered alone or in conjunction with whole body cryotherapy is cryotherapy spot treatment. It's used for targeted cold therapy, which is especially good for sprains. It is also used on the face — as a cryo facial or as a targeted treatment for migraines. Similar to the oxygenating, rejuvenating effects it has on the body, it also aids in the production of collagen in your skin.

Instead of being blasted in the chamber with liquid nitrogen, you receive a soft dusting on your face (or whichever body part you choose to treat). It was actually quite soothing and something I would definitely try the next time a bad headache rolls around. When I emerged from treatment, my face had a nice tightness and the "cryo glow" to it thanks to the recirculation of blood.

Image courtesy Hannah Savin

I spent nearly two weeks trying cryotherapy and did five back-to-back sessions (as its most effective when done in succession.) It definitely did get easier to tolerate the cold by my third session. I was most pleased with myself when I no longer had to dance in the chamber to get myself through it — instead being able to relax and let the therapy work as intended.

I especially love the adrenaline rush when you exit the tube. It really is a sensation similar to that after a particularly satisfying workout. I tried cryo both before and after workouts and was pleased with both results. When you experience cryo before your workout, the adrenaline rush gets you pumped and primed for the workout. When you use cryo after a workout, it really does help to alleviate soreness and stiffness, essentially getting your body ready to do it all over again.

My lower back pain has been significantly less noticeable since I started cryotherapy. I used to dread situations where I'd be standing for long periods of time and it's much more tolerable now. If I know I'm going to be in one of those situations, I'll pop in for a quick session or use it after the pain hits. I'm all for the holistic approach to treating what life throws at us and I definitely see cryotherapy as a great treatment option. If you suffer from chronic pain, illness or are looking to heal without drugs or surgery, cryotherapy is definitely worth a try.

Image courtesy Hannah Savin