Half an hour ago I just finished up showering, believe it or not I had the faucet turned as far to the right as possible. After watching a TED Talk on cold showers I was sold, I had to give it a try – well that was 3 months ago and I’ve been having a cold shower each morning (post workout) ever since and have never felt more alive!
To be honest I owe much of my success in changing my physique and building successful businesses on these cold showers that I speak so highly of. Enduring a voluntary cold shower displays fearlessness and grit.
You probably think I’m insane right? The only time people ever have cold showers is when they’re force too isn’t it? Perhaps someone flushed the toilet while you were in the shower and you got a dash of cold water for a split second, or if the inconsiderate person that showered before you used all the hot water, leaving you with a cold shower and a bad mood.
Next time this happens as crazy as it sounds you should be thanking them, because perhaps they were just looking out for you! Here’s why…
Improved Blood Circulation
Cold showers promote improved blood circulation throughout the body. The cold water exposure causes your blood to be redirected via your essential organs – thus causing your body to circulate your blood through the body in a more efficient manner.
Cold water causes what is known as ‘vasoconstriction’ which is the tightening of our arteries and veins, causing an increase in blood flow at a higher pressure.
Increase Immune Strength
Studies conducted in Prague on young athletes suggests that cold showers are responsible for an increase in white blood cells (monocytes and lymphocytes). Individuals with a greater number of lymphocytes are less likely to encounter viruses, colds and flus as these particular white blood cells are responsible for fighting off bacteria and bad toxins.
Increased Testosterone Levels
Cold showers turn you from a boy to a man. The Thrombosis Research Institute of England conducted a study in 1993, the results of this study suggest a correlation between those that take regular cold showers and high testosterone levels. This rise in your testosterone levels equates to an increase in libido, energy and strength.
Improves Skin
As enjoyable as a hot shower is it certainly isn’t doing our skin or hair any favours, hot water dries out our skin and hair. This increases the ability for dirt to get clogged in our pores, causing acne and other skin blemishes. Cold water on the other hand is known to tighten the pores and cuticles which essentially aids in detoxification as bad toxins are squeezed out of the pores. Hair cuticles are closed up as an effect of the exposure to cold water which strengthens our hair, as hair loss is a major issue in young men today this is a huge benefit.
Relieves Depression
A study performed by the Department of Radiation Oncology at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine suggests that regular cold showers assist in fighting depression. The ‘blue spot’ of the brain is said to be stimulated by these short duration cold showers, this is due to the ‘noradrenaline’ which is a chemical in the brain that has been linked with the mitigation of depression.
Increased Energy
The feeling after a cold shower will have you more wired and energetic than a double shot espresso. No matter how groggy, lethargic or unenergetic you’re feeling in the morning as soon as that ice cold water hit your skin your heart and breathing while dramatically increase, as your body attempts to adapt to the situation at hand you’re left feeling completely energized.
James Bond has them…
No explanation necessary on this one.
My Challenge to you
Now, I don’t expect you to jump into the shower and scream while you endure a 10 minute ice cold shower as soon as you finish reading this post, but I do encourage each time you shower to turn that faucet just a little bit further to the right. Alternatively you can contrast shower by alternating between hot and cold water every 20 seconds. Yes, you will squirm and your breathing will be deep and erratic once you venture into cold territory, but it’s worth it.
Cold showering is a powerful habit to add to your daily routine.
Want to know more about cold showering and cold water therapy?
Check out my ebook 'Cold Showering 101'
Available in eBook and Paperback editions.
If you rather listen than read there's also an Audiobook edition available.
Do you take cold showers? What are your thoughts on them? Let me know in the comments below!
PS: My definitive guide to fat loss is now available!
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