Strengthen through heat and cold
Heat, cold and the targeted strengthening of your immune system and immune systemIn this article, you will discover why the interplay between our 90°C Finnish sauna and the 14×5-metre outdoor pool at the Restaurant and Landhotel Winter is much more than just relaxation. We take a look at the scientific background of biohacking on the Swabian Jura and show you how to sustainably weather-proof your immune system through thermal stimuli.
Bio-hacking on the Alb: how sauna and outdoor pool fortify your immune system
When the mist hangs over the hills of the Swabian Alb or frost coats the Ziegelbergstraße in Offenhausen, our bodies crave warmth. Yet behind this desire for cosiness lies a tangible biological benefit. At the Restaurant und Landhotel Winter, we rely on the combination of extreme heat and targeted cooling to take your immune system to a new level.
But what actually happens physiologically in your body during this process? Why are our Finnish sauna and the heated outdoor pool the perfect duo for your health?
The Finnish sauna: vascular training at 90°C
In our Finnish sauna there is a constant 90°C. This targeted heat stimulus puts your body into a state similar to a mild artificial fever.
- Activation of immune cells: The increased body temperature stimulates the production of white blood cells (leukocytes). These are your body's „police“ and protect you against viruses and bacteria.
- Vascular gymnastics: In the heat, your blood vessels dilate. The blood circulates faster, and the supply of nutrients to your organs is optimised.
- Detoxification through sweating: intensive sweat production allows metabolic waste products to be excreted more efficiently via the skin.
Fact: Regular sauna sessions reduce the risk of common colds by up to 50 %.
Detail: A study by the University of Vienna (Ernst et al.) showed that participants who used the sauna regularly fell ill with infections only half as often as the control group.
Fact: 4–7 sauna sessions a week reduce the risk of high blood pressure by 46 %.
Detail: The elasticity of the blood vessels is massively improved by the alternation between the 90° heat and cooling down in the pool (our 14x5m pool is ideal for exercising afterwards).
- Source: Zaccardi, F., Laukkanen, T., et al. (2017). „Sauna bathing and incident hypertension.“ American Journal of Hypertension.
Fact: The risk of sudden cardiac death falls by 63 % with frequent exercise (4–7 times a week).
Fact: The release of cortisol (stress hormone) decreases measurably, while endorphins (happy hormones) increase.
Source: Laukkanen, T., et al. (2015). „Association Between Sauna Bathing and Fatal Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality Events.“ JAMA Internal Medicine.
The 14x5m outdoor pool: The power of temperature contrast
The secret to a strong immune system doesn't lie solely in the heat, but in the interplay. After you've had a good sweat in the sauna, heading outside is crucial. Our 14×5-metre, heated outdoor swimming pool provides the ideal setting here, or our showers in the sauna area with Kneipp hose.
The contrast between the hot sauna air and the fresh Alb air (followed by immersion in water) causes a sudden constriction of the previously dilated blood vessels. This „vascular gymnastics“ trains your body's ability to adapt quickly to temperature differences – the best prophylaxis against colds.
A quick swim is often not enough. The generous size of our pool allows you to swim a few peaceful laps. The gentle movement in the water supports lymph flow, which in turn accelerates the removal of toxins from the tissues. In addition, the combination of warm water and cool outside air ensures deep relaxation of the airways.
A strong immune system needs more than just temperature stimuli. It needs recovery and the right nourishment. Following your time in the wellness area, you will find the ideal complement in our restaurant: young, modern German cuisine based on fresh, regional ingredients. We avoid heavy food and instead focus on vitality you can taste.
- Warm-up: 8 to 12 minutes in the 90°C sauna.
- Cooling down: Short stay in the fresh air in Offenhausen.
- Activate: A few laps in our 14x5m outdoor pool.
- Rest period: Giving the body time to process the stimuli.
Conclusion: prevention rather than reaction
Restaurant und Landhotel Winter | Wellness hotel | Ziegelbergstraße 24, 72532 Gomadingen (Offenhausen)
Instead of waiting for the next wave of colds to catch you, you can actively strengthen your immune system with us. The interplay of thermal stimuli, exercise in the nature of the Swabian Alb and a high-quality diet is the most effective method to get through the year healthy and strong.
Visit us at 24 Ziegelbergstraße and experience for yourself how effective genuine relaxation can be.
