Mental health hack you didn't know you needed: Cold showers
What's the story
We all know that cold showers can be a great way to start the day, but did you know they can also boost your mental health? For beginners, cold showers can be a refreshing way to improve mood and reduce stress. By adding this simple habit to your daily routine, you can see a positive change in your mental well-being. Here's how cold showers can help you and some tips for beginners.
Mood boost
Boosts mood and energy levels
Cold showers are known to increase the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. The sudden exposure to cold water can trigger a release of these chemicals, leading to an improved mood and higher energy levels. For beginners, starting with short bursts of cold water can gradually acclimatize the body, while still providing mood-enhancing benefits.
Stress reduction
Reduces stress and anxiety
Taking cold showers may also help reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels. The shock of cold water can activate the body's sympathetic nervous system, promoting a state of alertness and calmness at the same time. Beginners should aim for two to three minutes of cold exposure at first, gradually increasing the duration as they become more comfortable.
Circulation boost
Enhances circulation and immunity
Cold showers are also said to improve circulation by constricting blood vessels and then dilating them once the body warms up again. This process improves blood flow, which can help improve your cardiovascular health in the long run. Further, regular cold exposure is said to strengthen the immune system by increasing white blood cell production.
Sleep improvement
Improves sleep quality
For beginners, taking cold showers in the morning can help regulate sleep patterns by balancing body temperature throughout the day. This regulation helps signal the body when it's time to wind down at night, improving overall sleep quality over time. Starting with morning sessions ensures that you don't disrupt nighttime rest.
Resilience building
Increases resilience to stressors
Regularly exposing yourself to cold showers builds resilience against everyday stressors. It trains your mind and body to handle discomfort better. This practice encourages adaptability in challenging situations outside of shower time, too. Beginners should focus on consistency rather than intensity initially. They should aim for regularity over longer sessions until they feel ready for more extended exposure periods.