Therapeutic Thermal Therapy FAQs
What is thermal therapy? ​
  • Therapeutic Thermal Therapy (sometimes called Contrast Therapy) relies on the concept of Vasodilation (to heat the body) and Vasoconstriction (to cool the body). In short, it promotes the alternation between extreme hot and cold temperatures to encourage blood flow/oxygen between internal organs and extremities. 
  • It's just like a gentle and passive internal workout for the body that helps to optimise functionality of the cellular, nervous, lymphatic and circulatory systems.
  • ​Use your body's natural ability to heal and feel good by encouraging oxygen flow throughout the body and facilitates mitochondrial functioning which generates energy to power both cellular and biological functions within the body, giving you the energy source to perform the myriad of tasks you do everyday.​
  • If these inner workings are blocked, mainly due to the stresses of modern life, your ability to function at your best is compromised. You'll most likely feel tired, irritable, overwhelmed and just plain out of sorts.
  • But you don't have to feel this way.
Why thermal therapy?
Thermal therapy is just like a gentle and passive internal workout for the body that helps to optimise functionality of the cellular, nervous, lymphatic and circulatory systems. Thermal contrasting naturally encourages oxygen flow throughout the body and facilitates mitochondrial functioning which generates energy to power both cellular and biological functions within the body. Think of this kind of workout as your body's power plant that gives you the energy to perform the tasks you do everyday.

If these inner workings are blocked, mainly due to the stresses of modern life, your ability to function at your best is compromised. You'll most likely feel tired, irritable, maybe even depressed, overwhelmed and just plain out of sorts.
But you don't have to feel this way.
History of THERMAL (contrast) therapy
​Contrast therapy has been a very popular wellness option throughout Europe, Japan and Scandinavia for centuries and over the last few years has grown considerably in Australia for recovery purposes, relaxation or rejuvenation.
​DOES THERMAL THERAPY BURN CALORIES?
​​Regularly participating in a thermal therapy session increases & lowers your heart rate as your body is exposed to extreme hot and cold temperatures which naturally increases your metabolic. While there is no clear cut scientific evidence on whether contrast therapy actively assists with effective weight loss, it certainly does burn off calories due to the increased heart rate and the effects of the temperature change on your body.
​How often should thermal therapy be done?
Once a month should suffice and if you choose a healthy lifestyle the benefits on your body should last until your monthly top up.
​What do I need to bring?
Your own flip flops or slippers. Swimming togs must be worn @ all times. 
In the interest of reducing land fill we don't provide disposable spa slippers anymore. However, you can purchase a pair of reusable ones from us for only $10 for you to use for your Nova Spa visits. ​
WHAT'S THE MIN AGE?
​We are an adults only day spa. However, we do allow from ages 16 and above upon request.
​When should I start thermal (contrast therapy)?
A hot and cold water immersion should not be done sooner than 48 hours after an injury. Waiting for 72 hours would be ideal. Those in good physical health, however, can begin this procedure at any time and enjoy the overall benefits.
​Who should not do thermal (contrast) therapy?
​You should not do thermal therapy if you suffer from the following:
  • Open or infected wounds of less than 48hours old 
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Untreated epilepsy
In general, always consult with your medical practitioner first when wanting to try new forms of therapy, no matter whether they are active or passive.
More information/resources
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​Mild hyperbaric oxygen: mechanisms & effects