Benefits of Taking a Cold Shower or Bath for Overall Health
By Louise Allingham and Carina Stathis
Published: 01:17 GMT, 6 November 2023 | Updated: 01:22 GMT, 6 November 2023
A doctor has unveiled the remarkable advantages of incorporating a cold shower or bath into your daily routine. Dr Poonam Desai, an American physician, suggests that cold exposure can not only make you feel younger but also improve your overall health. The benefits include reduced wrinkles, decreased stress levels, lowered inflammation, and better sleep quality.
In an online video, Dr Poonam asks, “Are you aware of the numerous health benefits associated with exposing yourself to cold temperatures for short periods of time?” She recommends taking a cold shower, indulging in a cold bath, or even plunging into an ice bath for a brief amount of time.
Dr Poonam advises dividing 11 minutes of cold exposure per week into multiple two to three minute sections. This method ensures the maximum benefits. She explains that cold exposure boosts collagen production, resulting in reduced wrinkles and increased skin elasticity. It also helps to alleviate stress, decrease inflammation, and enhance sleep quality.
Dr Poonam adds, “Including cold exposure in your routine has countless benefits for your overall health. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend adding it to your wellness regimen.”
However, it is essential to consult a doctor before implementing a new routine, as cold exposure may not be suitable for everyone, especially pregnant women.
Cold plunges have become increasingly popular as people become more aware of their potential health benefits. Dr Poonam Desai suggests immersing yourself in a cold bath or shower for 11 minutes each week. The advantages include collagen-boosting effects, reduced stress levels, decreased inflammation, and improved sleep quality.
A well-known advocate for cold therapy, Wim Hof, also known as the ‘Iceman,’ believes that exposing oneself to cold temperatures can assist with depression, anxiety, energy levels, and potentially even prevent illnesses like cancer. The 63-year-old Hof is known for enduring freezing temperatures, such as climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in shorts and spending 112 minutes in a container filled with ice cubes.
Hof claims that cold therapy can be beneficial for treating depression, as complete submersion can lead to a significant increase in adrenaline and dopamine, both of which help regulate symptoms. He recommends gradually increasing exposure to cold temperatures, starting with a 15-second cold shower and extending the time by 15 seconds each day until reaching 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
The Wim Hof Method, which incorporates deep breathing, exposure to cold water, and a focused mindset, offers a practical way to achieve better health, happiness, and strength.
Improve your overall health and incorporate cold exposure into your routine today. Start with short cold showers or baths and gradually increase the time spent in cold water. Consult your doctor before making any changes. Stay healthy and vibrant for longer!
