So what’s the fuss about cold showers? Cold showers are actually beneficial for both your body and mind. We’re not talking about ice baths here, ok? All you need is spending 10 minutes in a cold shower and you’ll be able to reap the following benefits:
Improves Mood
The receptors in your skin signals the brain to release endorphins and other mood-enhancing neurotransmitters when you take a cold shower.
Helps You Wake Up
If you struggle to shake off morning sleepiness, a cold showers can definitely help. The low temperature signals the production of norepinephrine and dopamine, which will make you alert and energized.
Boosts Blood Circulation
When the cold water hits your body, your body temperature goes down so your body will have to work a bit harder to warm itself. This in turn improves blood circulation.
Increases Metabolism
It may sound counterintuitive, but subjecting your body to icy water can actually help warm you up before a workout. This in turn raises your metabolism and activates your body’s heat-producing mechanisms. All these processes contribute to more calories burned.
Hastens Post-Workout Recovery
A cold shower activates a process known as vasoconstriction which helps reduce muscle inflammation and swelling. It’ll be great to take a cold shower after your workout at Fitness 19.
Strengthens Your Immune Defenses
Repeated exposure to cold water stimulates the production of infection-fighting white blood cells, which defend your body against common illnesses, as discovered by Charles University.
Aids in Weight Loss
As mentioned previously, cold showers raise metabolism and forces your body to work harder to warm itself up. These things translate to more calories burned which in turn will help you shed weight.
Eases Depressive Symptoms
Cold water exposure boosts norepinephrine levels and this chemical is responsible for mood regulation. It’s also been found to increase production of a neurotransmitter which alleviates pain.
Improves Focus
Cold water boosts blood flow to your brain, enabling it to get sufficient amounts of oxygen and nutrients which in turn leads to better mental clarity, alertness and concentration.
Raises Testosterone Levels
A study conducted by sports scientists at Swansea University found that subjecting athletes to extremely low temperatures after a tough sprint session boosts testosterone levels in their saliva by up to 28%.
So next time you need an energy boost or a way to improve your mood, consider taking a cold shower and experience the difference for yourself.