5 Reasons to take the plunge: Benefits of cold submersion and why you should try it today
Cold plunges, also known as cold water immersion (or dunking yourself in cold water), have been becoming more popular recently for their numerous health benefits. Newer in popularity, they have actually been used by many ancient cultures as an important part of wellness, including Russian, Greek and Scandinavian.
If you're looking to add something new to your wellness routine, cold plunges are a great holistic practice that provide a wide range of advantages. Here are some of the benefits of cold plunges and why you should consider taking one today:
Improve circulation: When you immerse yourself in cold water, your body responds by constricting blood vessels near the skin to keep in heat. The body directs blood flow towards vital organs where it is most needed. Once you leave the cold plunge and start to warm up, the blood vessels dilate, improving overall circulation.
Reduce inflammation: Cold plunges help reduce inflammation in the body, easing swelling and inflammation in muscles and joints. Athletes can use ice baths or other cold submersion as a technique to recover faster and reduce exercise-induced inflammation.
Boost immunity: Over time, cold water exposure can cause an increase in the production of white blood cells, which play a key role in fighting off infections and illnesses, thus boosting the immune system.
Increase energy and cognitive function: Cold water immersion is praised for its ability to boost mood, increase level of alertness, and improve mental clarity. The shock of cold water can stimulate the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters that directly change the chemistry of the brain. You will feel an immediate boost in energy and in your mood!
Stress relief: Immersing yourself in cold water is also a form of stress relief and relaxation. The sudden temperature change triggers the body's stress response, releasing stress-fighting hormones. In this way, taking cold plunges can help people to feel calmer and more centered.
Incorporating cold plunges into your routine doesn't have to be intimidating. Start by adding two minutes of cooler water to the end of your shower, and go on from there. Over time you will get used to it and learn to look forward to your cold plunges (believe me, it’s true!). With time, you might also notice that the idea of breathing through the difficulty of a cold plunge translates to other facets of life- breathing through difficulties and handling setbacks from a place of calm.
Please note: Always listen to your body and consult with your doctor before starting cold plunges if you have any underlying health conditions. This article is meant to inform, not to diagnose or treat any illnesses.
