Cryotherapy

-225°F

I tried cryotherapy for the first time, today. It's basically the opposite of a sauna. Instead of extreme heat, it's extreme cold.

How cold? About -225°F. Yup, two hundred twenty-five degrees below zero for three minutes.

If pain's a good thing because it means you're not dead then I felt very alive at the end of my three minutes. The hairs on my legs were frosty brittle. I don't know if it had any health benefits – but what are the health benefits of a sauna or steam room? If heat is relaxing, then cold is invigorating.

Three minutes cost $25 and, without an appointment, I was in and out in less than 15 minutes. I only wore my underwear, gloves, and flip flops with socks (not exactly a fashion statement).

The woman administering my treatment, who coincidentally had the same last name as me, chatted with me throughout my session. Probably to make sure I didn't pass out. It was chilly.