Wim Hof, known as the iceman has done a lot of research on the benefits of cold therapy. Besides having spiritual benefits, there are deep restorative benefits to the cold which helps with pain and inflammation. Cold showers, or cold-water immersion, is a popular technique among amateur and professional athletes, but it also offers boosting benefits for everyone because it speeds recovery after exercise and reduces delayed -onset muscle soreness. Cold water showers also help boost your fat burning abilities by activating your brown fat. The cold water also helps you wake up in the morning, and most importantly moves your blood vessels, creating better circulation for the day.
Although there can be amazing benefits to cold showers, it is important to have guidelines and proper instruction so that the process is easier. Even though the cold may be beneficial for our health, jumping into a cold shower is not the easiest thing to do.
It is no fun taking a shower when you start with cold. Try this. Start with warm water, get your washing done, then change the temperature to cold. You can set a timer on your phone and try to stay in the cold for two minutes. Typically, people tend to hold their breath when the cold hits their body. Instead, this is a great time to focus on your breath and practice deep breathing techniques. Plan several deep breaths on the front of your body, then turn to the side, to the back, other side, and finish with your front. If two minutes sounds too long, go shorter, and work yourself up .
If you take a cold shower at night, it can help you sleep by creating more energy and by getting your body ready for sleep as your mind will be clearer.
Even though there are no life changing benefits to taking cold showers, they do help to improve circulation and metabolism. Long term benefits include better moods, better connection with your body, and dermatologists see improved skin tone. No one can deny the fact that they are indeed invigorating!