7 Benefits of Cold Showers – Is it Worth it?

Last Updated on September 26, 2023

Just the idea of taking a cold showers makes most people shiver. But taking what is known as the “James Bond Shower”- turning the temperature down to freezing cold at the end of the shower, can provide surprising health benefits. doesn’t sound too bad right? it will sound and feel better when after you read the benefits of cold showers and actually try it yourself.

Lower Stress Levels

A study conducted in 1994 found a drastic decrease in uric acid levels (high levels of uric acid can lead to gout-a form of arthritis that is caused by an excess uric acid in the body and more often than not, the cause is our body’s ability to eliminate uric acid) during and following exposure to a cold stimulus. The study also shown an increase in gluthathione, an antioxidant that keeps all other antioxidants performing at their optimal levels.

Increases Alertness

When cold water hits your skin, it causes your blood vessels to constrict (narrow), which is the body’s natural response to cold. This vasoconstriction helps redirect blood flow away from the skin’s surface to deeper tissues, which can increase blood flow to vital organs like the heart and brain. This redirection of blood can make you feel more alert. Also cold exposure stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the “fight or flight” response. This activation can lead to heightened alertness, increased focus, and improved mental clarity.

Strengthen the Immune System

Your body’s reaction to the temperature drop creates a chain reaction:Your metabolic rates increase, than the body commence a natural virus/germs-fighting defense system with a rapid release of white blood cells. Studies by Professor Vijay Kakkar, the founder of the Thrombosis Research Institute in London, show that the body ramps up immune cell production when exposed to cold water for short periods of time.

Speeds Up Muscle Soreness and Recovery

Cold showers and cold water immersion, also known as cryotherapy, can have potential benefits for muscle soreness and recovery, although the evidence supporting these effects is mixed. Here are some potential ways in which cold showers may impact muscle soreness and recovery:

1. Reduced Inflammation: Cold exposure can help reduce inflammation, which is a natural part of the body’s response to muscle damage during exercise. Cold showers may help by constricting blood vessels and decreasing blood flow to the muscles, potentially reducing inflammation and swelling.
2. Pain Relief: Cold showers or ice baths can provide temporary pain relief by numbing sore muscles and reducing the perception of pain. This can be particularly helpful for managing muscle soreness after intense workouts.
3. Enhanced Circulation: Alternating between hot and cold water (contrast baths) may improve circulation by causing blood vessels to constrict and dilate. This can potentially help flush out waste products from the muscles and deliver fresh oxygen and nutrients, aiding in recovery.
4. Reduction in Muscle Spasms: Cold water exposure may help reduce muscle spasms and tightness, contributing to muscle recovery.

Stimulates Weight Loss

Our body has two types of fat tissue—white and brown cells. White cells are responsible for love handles and the buildup of fat on the stomach and neck. Brown cells are packed with mitochondria, the energy center of cells, and can be burned for energy to keep us warm. When the body is producing brown cells at an increased level, we are more likely to reduce the build up of white cells that occur during a caloric surplus. A 2009 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that brown fat cell increased after taking a cold shower.

Relieve Depression

Research at the Department of Radiation Oncology at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine indicates that short cold showers may stimulate the brain’s “blue spot”– which is the brain’s primary source of noradrenaline — the chemical that been known to relieve depression.

Refines your Hair and Skin

While hot water dries out your skin, cold water actually tightens your skin and constricts the blood vessels. The result is reduction in the appearance of pores and dark circles under your eyes. As for your hair, the cold water makes it appear healthier and shinier because the cold water flattens your hair follicles and allows them to better grip your scalp.

Ok Let’s Try this Cold Shower Thing

Ok so now that the benefits are clear, let’s talk about how to cold shower:

1. Get into the shower and turn on the hot water.
2. When you feel your body is warm enough rinse it with cold water for 15-30 seconds
3. Towel up!

You’ll feel the benefits instantly and throughout the day! please share with us in the comments your experience!

*while there are many benefits to cold shower recommended by medicine, it is important to consult with a doctor to make sure you don’t have any health conditions that may worsen or triggered by taking a cold shower.

Bottom Line- Benefits of Cold Showers

As you can see there are many Benefits of Cold Showers, physical and mental. If you never tried them maybe you can take on a 30 days challenge and try taking one each day or every other day. See how it feels,  are you feeling the benefits discussed here? As mentioned earlier ,be sure to consult your doctor and make sure your health condition allows you to do this.

Let us know in the comments how it goes!

FAQ

Disclaimer: This website does not provide medical advice It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment.