In our search for the “magic pill” that will make us feel and look younger, many of us have tried a promising concoction that we drink, dab or inject in the hopes that this will be the one. Well, the search for the “Fountain of Youth” may simply come to an end.

During New York Fashion Week, I met several models in a cafe who had just been “frozen” as part of their cosmetic treatment. They go straight from the airport to the rejuvenation center for a fast freeze which they say helps with jetlag, gives them energy and it will keep them looking fresh all week.

While I’m all the time willing to try the latest beauty trends, I was a little skeptical about freezing myself out so I made a decision to stop by FUEL STOP in Manhattan to see what all the hype was all about…

What is Cyrotherapy?

Cyrotherapy is popularly used for athletes and non-athletes alike to help relieve sore muscles but it has many other health and wonder benefits that everybody can benefit from. Brief exposure to extreme cold (-200F degrees and below) via Cryochamber – is the most efficient, fast, and sustainable immune system boosting, energizing, and support treatment. It is a key element for building immunity throughout the body, both internally and externally by strengthening cell metabolism. Extreme cold reduces inflammation and controls pain while decreasing inflammatory mediators such as histamine and serotonin. It also increases collagen production and skin tightening; heals acne, dermatitis, psoriasis and releases endorphins that help with depression.

At the Fuel Stop:

When I arrived I was greeted by Mila Joura, the owner of FUEL STOP. He explained his philosophy and vision of “accelerated regeneration” to me. “Here at FUEL STOP we offer a ‘fast track regeneration circuit’ in an urban lounge environment. State-of-the-art technology, non-invasive and short duration are the core features of all ‘Endurance’ centric treatments. Energy. Contour.’ The FUEL STOP formula is centered on three anti-aging pillars: building immunity through cold therapy; replenishing energy through nutraceutical cocktails that improve brain function; body contour improvement through non-invasive fat and cellulite removal face and body treatments.”

FUEL STOP promises increased energy, sharper thoughts, balanced emotions, better sleep and better performance in 15 minute short circuits.

What to expect:

A technician led me into a small dressing room where he handed me a bag containing a robe, clogs, thick woolen socks, gloves and a head warmer. I was instructed to take off everything but my bikini, including any jewelery as the freezing temperatures can cause freezer burn. After I changed, I met him in the cyrochamber, which is a large room with 2 rooms that can fit about 2-3 people. He had me choose my favourite song to dance to and instructed me to go to the first room for 20 seconds to acclimate to the cold before I moved to the second room and dance for 3 minutes.

I disrobed, wearing only my bathing suit and winter accessories. I stepped into the first room thinking this wasn’t so bad and much more tolerable than I expected. It was a bit chilly but no more than a winter’s day. Then I was given a signal to move to the next room. Now, I believe it is kind of foolish that I was told to dance and keep moving while a technician watched me from the window, but as the temperature dropped to below 200F, the need to move around was unavoidable. The cold air fully shocked my body and all I could think were warm thoughts and Rhianna. Three minutes later, which went by quickly, the technician gave me a thumbs up. I made it through my first cold therapy rejuvenation session!

He greeted me outside the room in my robe and led me to a vibrating platform where I stood for the blood to flow back to my limbs. Standing there, I never felt so alive. My energy level is very high and all my senses feel like they’re heightened. If I could do this every morning, I’d never must drink another cup of coffee!

After a couple of minutes, we moved into one of the spa rooms where she gave me a 5 minute Age Removal Facial. Here, a machine gently blows cool, same-temperature air over your face to speed up collagen regeneration and reduce inflammation. The machine can even be used to target other parts of the body such as the knee, elbow or any other part that’s inflamed. But, when used on the face, it immediately imparts a youthful glow while reducing redness from acne or rosacea. The long-term effects of a few sessions can reduce wrinkles and speed up the healing of many skin disorders.

After the facial, I changed my clothes and met Mila again at the juice bar. She offers me her signature pineapple detox iced tea with a shot of her blend, energy supplement Brain Floss. At FUEL STOP, they do not only focus on the body, but also on maintaining a healthy mind! After all, who wants to have all the beauty, no brains?

the tail:

For the rest of the day I feel refreshed and invigorated. Even although it is hot and humid on the streets of New York City, I feel like I’ve got a cool breeze just on me and I’m barely breaking a sweat. My skin looks rejuvenated with a well-rested glow and that I have more bounce in my steps. The effect lasts all day and into the night.

The FUEL STOP Fast Track Circuit is a fantastic experience that I will absolutely try to incorporate into my health and wonder routine. It is recommended that to accomplish the best results, one should visit FUEL STOP twice a week, but it varies depending on individual needs.

You can learn more about FUEL STOP by visiting: http://thefuelstopnyc.com

NYC STOP FUEL

200 Central Park South

New York, New York 10019