If you are looking to add an edge to your morning routine, including a cold shower can be a good idea. Taking cold showers has many benefits that can improve your physical and mental health. Cold showers have a host of benefits, including improved circulation, skin health, and increased alertness. They also help to boost your immune system, relieve muscle pain, and decrease inflammation.
If you're not used to taking cold showers, it's important to start slowly and gradually increaseincreasing the length and temperature of the showers. But once you get used to it, you may find that cold showers are quite invigorating and refreshing!
What are the benefits of cold showers?
Many people dread cold showers, but there are a lot of benefits to taking them! Here are some of them:
1. Increase in alertness and concentration
A cold shower in the morning is a great way to start your day. It increases alertness and energizes your body. A hormone called endorphin is secreted in the body when you take a cold shower. This hormone is one of the happy hormones such as dopamine. When you take a cold shower, your brain releases endorphins to increase alertness and concentration.
2. Boost circulation and relieve muscle soreness
When you take a cold shower, your body tries to maintain the core temperature to keep your body warm. This improves your blood circulation and is also associated with relieving muscle soreness. Cold showers reduce swelling and soreness by constricting your blood vessels and slowing blood flow.
3. Boost your immune system
Cold water has regenerative properties, and many researchers suggest that cold water promotes the growth of monocytes and lymphocytes. It also increases metabolic rate and plasma concentration. Overall, cold showers keep your immune system healthy. - PubMed
4. Improve your mood and reduce stress levels
The brain secretes endorphins when you take a cold shower. It is known as the happy hormone and may help fight anxiety and depression. Cold showers also lower the level of a stress hormone called cortisol.
5. Improve your skin and hair
Cold water maintains the protective layer of the skin called the sebum layer. It also tightens your skin and prevents acne while maintaining moisture in the scalp and strengthening hair cuticles.
6. Beneficial for arthritis or other joint problems
One study showed the positive results of cold water shower therapy given to chronic inflammatory arthritis patients. Treatment reduced pain, and inflammation in a week and is considered safe. - PubMed
What do cold showers do for your body?
Cold showers can boost your immune system. When you expose your body to cold temperatures, it causes your white blood cells to work harder. This means they’re better equipped to fight off infection and disease.
They improve blood circulation, as your blood vessels constrict in response to the cold, your heart has to work harder to pump blood through your body. This can help improve overall circulation.
If you suffer from muscle aches or pain, a cold shower can be a great way to relieve it. It also promotes better sleep and reduces stress levels in the body. Additionally, it promotes skin and hair health.
Are cold showers safe?
Generally, cold showers are considered safe and there are many potential benefits of taking them, including improved circulation, boosted immunity, and relieving muscle soreness. However, it also depends on a person's health and medical history.
What are the cons of cold showers?
The cons of taking cold showers are that they can be uncomfortable, and they may not be as effective as hot showers in some cases. If you are unwell you must avoid cold showers because they can have adverse effects.
Is it OK to take cold showers every day?
Yes, most people can take cold showers every day without any issues. Regular cold showers can keep your body fit and healthy. However, some people may experience heart palpitations and headaches. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop taking cold showers. If you are new to cold showers a quick suggestion would be to try to increase the intensity of the temperature slowly and let your body get used to it.
Which is better, a cold or a hot shower?
The benefits of cold showers are that they can help improve circulation, ease muscle soreness, and boost the immune system. Hot showers on the other hand can help relax the body and loosen tight muscles. They give you a wholesome feeling after a long day. Both have their benefits in different situations.
