Cold Water Therapy Explained Simply

Cold Water Therapy – All You Need To Know

In this post, we’ll unpack all you need to know about Cold Water Therapy, defining exactly what it is, viewing it through the lens of evolution, the science behind it, the benefits and more.

What Is Cold Water Therapy?

Cold Water Therapy, also known as hydrotherapy, is the practice of using water in any of its forms (water, ice and steam) that’s around 59°F (15°C) to stimulate health benefits.

The Evolutionary Perspective

From an evolutionary perspective, humans evolved to bathe in cold water. Only those who were fortunate enough to live near a natural hot selling could regularly enjoy a hot bath. In other words, we evolved for the cold.

The Science

As a therapy, cold water exposure has been used for hundreds ― if not ― thousands of years. For good reason too.

Cold water exposure at temperatures below 14°C increase noradrenaline levels by up-to 530% and dopamine levels by up-to 250%. This means that cold water exposure increases dopamine levels more than chocolate, nicotine and even sex.

10 Benefits Of Cold Showers

Below are 10 benefits of cold showers.

  1. Improved Skin & Hair
  2. Increased Alertness
  3. Improved Sleep
  4. Relieved Depression
  5. Strengthened Immune System
  6. Increased Will Power & Sense Of Accomplishment
  7. Weight Loss
  8. Boosted Fertility In Men
  9. Reduced Stress
  10. Improved Lymphatic System

Summary (TL;DR)

Cold Water Therapy (CWT) is the practice of intentionally exposing oneself to water with a temperature of below 15°c to achieve therapeutic benefits for the mind and body.

From an evolutionary perspective, humans evolved to bathe in cold water since only those who were fortunate enough to live near a natural hot selling could regularly enjoy a hot bath.

Extensive research shows that this practice can have a profoundly positive impact both psychologically and physiologically.

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