'A cold shower a day keeps the doctor away' – Wim Hof
In recent years, cold body therapy has gained popularity due to its numerous health benefits. You’ve most probably seen on social media, professional athletes, bodybuilders and celebrities undergoing whole body cryotherapy (which literally means “cold therapy”).
Cryotherapy is a technique where the body is exposed to extremely cold temperatures for several minutes. Unfortunately, this is relatively expensive and not a widely available treatment.
Now, if you’re on a budget or cryotherapy is not available to you, fear not, you can still improve your body’s health, fitness and recovery levels from the comfort of your home by taking cold showers.
Top 10 Cold Shower Benefits
Although at first, the thought of taking a cold shower is not so inviting, it can provide numerous health benefits. The 2014 study, “Scientific Evidence-Based Effects of Hydrotherapy on Various Systems of the Body” suggests that cold showers can:
Improve immune system response
Increase metabolism
Increase heart rate and blood circulation
Raise levels of the neurochemical’s dopamine and norepinephrine
Lower levels of cortisol, the “stress hormone”
Increase focus
Improve quality of sleep
Decrease inflammation
Reduce muscle spasms & soreness
Have pain-relieving effects
Shower time!
My preferred technique is the Wim Hof Method outlined below.
Step 1: Step under the warm water, wash and step out from under the water
Step 2: Turn the water to cold, set your intention and step under the cold water
Step 3: Remain relaxed, control your breathing and do your best not to tense up
Step 4: Smile, enjoy and never force it