My whole life I’ve tried to withstand the hottest water I possibly could in the shower. And then I did some of my own research. Why exactly would someone electively immerse themselves into freezing cold water? And are there actual benefits from this? Turns out, there are many reasons and positive benefits to go along with this type of activity, albeit with limitations of course.
The first benefit is how cold water (below 70 degrees F) can help our bodies become more resistant to stress. Hydrotherapy, otherwise known as water therapy, has been used for centuries to maximize our body’s tendency to adapt to harsher conditions. As a result, our bodies become more resistant to stress.
Another added benefit is how cold showers can increase our endorphins (these are the positive chemicals that get released in our body naturally) and aid with depression. At least 10 percent of American adults are affected with depression, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There are many drugs on the market that treat depression, depending on the duration and magnitude of individual symptoms. If you’re looking for something to incorporate that’s non-pharma, a holistic method of treatment that’s gaining popularity is hydrotherapy. There are retail locations for this type of treatment almost everywhere, or you can simply do this at home. Here’s how: While you’re in the shower, you can take the temperature from hot to slowly cold and then even colder. Try to stand in that for 30 seconds. You can build over time and to whatever your tolerance may be. Taking a cold shower for 3 to 5 minutes, 2 or 3 times per week, was shown to help relieve symptoms of depression. You may wonder how it works: Cold water (really cold) acts as a gentle electroshock therapy. Cold water sends impulses to the brain. This helps increase alertness, clarity and will improve energy levels. Endorphins are called happiness hormones, and when released can bring about feelings of well-being and optimism. This is my favorite part, a quick and easy mood boost!
While we’ve stated some positive benefits for this type of treatment, Cold Water treatment does not act as a replacement for traditional treatments, only as a supplement. Alternative treatments like this, or any kind should not be favored over any medications prescribed by a physician. Remember: This may take some getting used to, and if you’re feeling sick or have a compromised immune system, you may want to wait this type of treatment out.
For more information, visit us at: Thegoodhealthnetwork.org
