The cold shower or cold plunge is one of the oldest and most effective forms of physical and mental wellness. As far back as Ancient Greece, people have been engaging in this practice to improve their health and well-being. From its early beginnings as a form of medicinal therapy, it has now become a popular way to promote overall wellbeing. It can be used for both physical and mental benefits – so let’s explore what these are!
First off, the first benefit of taking a cold shower or cold plunge lies in its ability to reduce inflammation. Studies show that exposing your body to colder temperatures helps reduce inflammation linked with diseases like arthritis, asthma, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic pain, psoriasis and more. It can also help to improve your skin health, too – by tightening pores and evening out oil production.
The second advantage of cold showers or plunges is a boost in energy and productivity. When we expose ourselves to colder temperatures, our body releases adrenaline which helps us to be more alert and focused. This adrenaline release can give us an extra ‘boost’, leading to improved concentration levels and enhanced productivity throughout the day.
The third benefit of cold showers or cold plunges lies in their ability to reduce stress levels. Colder water has been shown to reduce cortisol levels (the main hormone linked with stress). Lower cortisol levels mean less stress hormones are released into the body, reducing overall tension and improving moods. This can be particularly helpful if you suffer with anxiety or depression.
The fourth advantage of cold showers and plunges is improved circulation. Cold temperatures cause our blood vessels to constrict, which stimulates blood flow throughout the body. Improved circulation means more oxygen gets delivered to organs and muscles, leading to better overall health. It also helps flush out toxins from the body, eliminating them from your system.
Finally, another benefit of taking a cold shower or plunge lies in its ability to improve cardiovascular health. Studies have found that people who take colder showers have lower resting heart rates than those who take regular showers – meaning their hearts don’t need to work as hard during physical activities like running or swimming. As well as this, colder temperatures help lower blood pressure, meaning less strain on the heart.
So, as you can see – there are numerous benefits to taking a cold shower or plunge! From reducing inflammation and boosting energy levels, to lowering stress levels and improving circulation – this age-old practice is still one of the most effective ways to promote overall physical and mental health.