HomeHEALTH & FITNESSSurprising Benefits of Cold...

Surprising Benefits of Cold Showers: More Than Just Cooling Off

Free Subscribtion

Benefits of Cold Showers? As the temperature rises, it’s natural to seek relief from the heat by taking a cold shower. But did you know that cold showers have benefits beyond just cooling you off? In fact, cold showers can improve your alertness, soothe and calm your skin, decrease inflammation and pain, boost circulation, and even strengthen your immunity.

What Are Cold Showers and How Do They Work?

Before we dive into the benefits of cold showers, let’s first understand what they are and how they work. Cold showers are showers with cold water, usually at a temperature below 70°F (21°C). When you expose yourself to cold water, your body goes into a state of shock, triggering a “fight-or-flight” response that releases adrenaline and other stress hormones. This response can have both positive and negative effects on your body, depending on how you use it.

The Benefits of Cold Showers

1. Boosts Alertness and Energy

Starting your day with a cold shower can help wake you up and make you feel more alert and energized. This is because cold showers raise your epinephrine levels, which is a hormone that increases your heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure. In one study published in 2022, people who immersed their bodies in cold water for five minutes reported feeling more alert, enthusiastic, and active afterward.

2. Soothes and Calms Skin

Cold water can have a soothing and calming effect on your skin. It constricts blood vessels, which reduces redness and skin puffiness. This is especially beneficial if you have a flushing condition like rosacea or inflammatory conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Cold showers can also relieve the itch associated with certain skin conditions like allergic contact dermatitis, hives, sunburn, and eczema. Furthermore, cold water is less likely than hot water to dry out your skin and hair and strip it of its natural oils.

3. Decreases Inflammation and Pain

Cold showers have been shown to decrease inflammation and alleviate pain. When exposed to cold water, your body goes into a state of vasoconstriction, which reduces swelling and inflammation. This is why applying ice packs to injuries is recommended, and why athletes often take ice baths to help recover from sports injuries. Cryotherapy, or cold therapy, has been shown to be effective in improving exercise-induced inflammation and soreness.

4. Improves Circulation

Cold showers can improve blood circulation in your body by constricting blood vessels at the surface and shifting blood flow to the deeper tissues of the skin. Good circulation is vital to your health, as it ensures enough blood and oxygen supplied to the body’s vital organs in order to function properly.

- Advertisement -

5. Boosts Immunity

Cold showers have been shown to have immune benefits by decreasing the severity of illness. People who took a cold shower for just 30 seconds a day for at least 30 consecutive days called out sick from work 29% less than people who took regular (not cold) showers. Although it didn’t decrease the number of days that people were sick, the illnesses were milder.

The Disadvantages of Cold Showers

While cold showers have numerous benefits, they also have some potential drawbacks. Water that is too cold can be harsh on the skin and lead to redness by weakening the skin barrier. Some people may experience cold urticaria, which refers to hives that develop in the setting of exposure to cold temperatures. Extremely cold temperatures can lead to frost nip, a milder form of frostbite. Additionally, cold showers are not recommended for people with Raynaud’s syndrome, a condition in which cold temperatures cause constriction of blood vessels in the hands.

Cold Showers vs. Hot Showers

Both cold and hot showers have pros and cons for your health. Hot showers can decrease pain by helping muscles relax. They can also provide relief from respiratory symptoms, as the steam from the hot water can help clear your nasal passages and loosen up phlegm. However, hot water can cause blood vessels to vasodilate, which can contribute to increased redness and make acne breakouts appear worse. It can also be drying on the skin and hair, stripping the skin of its natural oils, potentially triggering more oil production and clogged pores.

Ultimately, whether you should take a cold or hot shower depends on your personal preference and what specific benefits you’re looking for. The bottom line is that both hot and cold showers can be healthy. Simply do the one, or a combination, that feels best to you.

How to Take a Cold Shower

If you want to try taking a cold shower, it’s important to do it safely and gradually. Start by turning down the temperature of your usual hot shower by a few degrees each day until you reach a temperature below 70°F (21°C). You can also start with just your feet and gradually work your way up to your whole body.

It’s important to note that too long of a duration in a cold shower may be harmful to your health. A cold shower should be ended if the skin is turning blue, which is a sign of altered blood circulation. Additionally, excessive exposure to water can strip the skin of essential oils.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cold showers have numerous benefits that extend beyond just cooling off in summer heat. They can boost alertness and energy, soothe and calm skin, decrease inflammation and pain, improve circulation, and boost immunity. While there are some potential drawbacks to taking cold showers, they can be safely and gradually incorporated into your shower routine. When it comes to taking a cold or hot shower, the choice is ultimately yours. Choose the one that makes you feel your best.

Type Keywords to Search

― ADVERTISEMENT ―

Most Popular

Global News KumDi.com

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Popular Articles

10 Must-See Older Women Younger Men Romance Movies

Older women younger men movies have gained popularity in recent years,...

10 Inspiring Celebrity Women Dating Younger Men

In recent years, the phenomenon of women who date younger men...

Best Foundation for Mature Skin: Tips from Makeup Pros 40+

Finding the best foundation for mature skin can be a game-changer...

― ADVERTISEMENT ―

Read Now

How Dogs Support Mental Health for Middle-Aged Women

The connection between dogs and mental health has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly for middle-aged women. Pet ownership has an impact on emotional well-being, offering companionship and unconditional love that can help alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety. For women over 50, the presence of...

Youn Yuh-jung: Pioneering Icon of Korean Entertainment

Youn Yuh-jung's recent success in the critically acclaimed film 'Minari' has brought her international recognition and accolades. Her portrayal of Soon-ja, a grandmother who brings warmth and humor to the story, has captivated audiences and garnered praise from critics.

Best Marriage Movies: A Journey Through Love and Relationships

Marriage is a beautiful and complex journey that comes with its ups and downs. It's no wonder that the film industry has dedicated countless movies to exploring the dynamics of married life.

The Allure of Old Money Aesthetic: Embrace Timeless Elegance

The old money woman is an icon of elegance, refinement, and sophistication. She exudes grace and poise, and her wardrobe is filled with timeless pieces that reflect her high social status.

Hottest K-Beauty Trends in 2024: Everything You Need to Know

K-beauty, the global phenomenon that has taken the world by storm, continues to innovate in the realms of skincare and cosmetics, the connection between inner and outer beauty.

The Most Talented and Attractive Men in History

Throughout history, there have been numerous men who have captivated the world with their exceptional looks and charm. From actors to musicians, athletes to intellectuals.

Hepatitis C: Understanding Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management

We will explore the diagnosis, treatment, and management of hepatitis C, providing valuable insights for healthcare professionals and individuals seeking information about this condition.

Will Watching a Mukbang Make You Lose Your Appetite?

Mukbang originated in South Korea and has rapidly spread across the globe. The rise of mukbang, a phenomenon where individuals consume large quantities of food on camera, has taken the internet by storm.

The Powerful Traits That Accompany Great Fortune

Luck has always been a fascinating and enigmatic concept. We often wish each other good luck, yet we can't help but feel a tinge of jealousy when someone else succeeds due to luck.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices for Radiant Skin

As women enter their 40s and 50s, their skin undergoes various changes influenced by hormonal shifts, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. However, with the right care and lifestyle adjustments, it is possible to maintain a healthy and radiant complexion during these transformative decades. In this comprehensive guide,...

The Best City to Live in 2024: A Global Perspective

The Best City to Live in 2023! As we enter 2023, many individuals are contemplating the ideal city to settle down in. With the world rapidly changing, it's important to consider factors such as stability, healthcare, culture, education, and infrastructure when determining the best city to live in.

The Ultimate Guide to 2024 Summer Dresses for Women

Summer is the perfect time to showcase your personal style and experiment with different fashion trends. From fun florals to stylish minidresses and elegant maxi dresses.