Why is Everyone Cold Plunging Lately?
- Gabriella Naguib
- Apr 21, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 18, 2024
With science advancing more rapidly than ever before, there's always a new trend on the horizon promising to revolutionize our health routines. From celery juice to infrared saunas, the 'wellness hype train' never seems to stop. Lately, one trend has been making waves across the wellness community: cold plunging.
Subjecting yourself to cold temperatures—whether it's through cold showers, ice baths, or cryotherapy—can have a multitude of health benefits, both physically and mentally. So whether you're terrified of the idea as I was at first, or whether your a Wim Hof enthusiast, keep reading to learn what science says is in it for you.
Chilling Benefits
As it turns out, exposing our bodies to cold temperatures triggers a cascade of positive benefits that can really enhance our well-being, so maybe this isn't just another baseless wellness trend after all.
Boosting Immunity and Circulation
One of the most known benefits of cold plunging is its ability to boost the immune system and enhance circulation. Here's what actually happens on the cellular level: the shock of cold water stimulates the production of white blood cells, strengthening our body's natural defence mechanisms, making it stronger in the face of harmful pathogens. In parallel, cold exposure prompts vasoconstriction (the constriction of our blood vessels), followed by vasodilation (dilation of blood vessels), which in turn improves blood circulation and oxygen delivery to our cells.
Enhancing Mental Resilience
As you would imagine it takes a lot of mental stamina, and perhaps a level of 'delulu' confidence, to willing submerge yourself into a body of cold water. That being said, repeating this exercise over time regularly exposes us to discomfort, which can help build mental toughness, resilience, and a greater capacity to cope with stressors in our daily lives.
Accelerating Recovery and Reducing Inflammation
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have long used cold therapy as a means of accelerating muscle recovery and reducing inflammation. As we just learned, cold plunging constricts blood vessels, which helps flush out metabolic waste products and reduce inflammation in muscles and joints. This leads to faster recovery times, improved athletic performance, and a reduced risk of injury—so it's no wonder athletes and gym-goers have been increasingly incorporating cold plunging into their routines. Now, with the advent of many at-home cold plunging options like Polar Recovery, this trend is rapidly being adopted by more than just athletes.
The Science Behind the Chill
Let's uncover more of the solid science backing up cold plunging benefits. Research published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research has shown that cold exposure activates brown adipose tissue, or "brown fat," which helps us generate heat, and in turn burn calories to keep our bodies warm. Another, study in the European Journal of Applied Physiology has linked cold therapy to the release of endorphins, dopamine, and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that promote feelings of well-being and happiness.
Also, check out this article from Polar Recovery: What Does Dr. Andrew Huberman Say About Cold Water Therapy?
Embracing the Cold Plunge
So whatever each individual's reasons may be, one thing is clear: cold plunging is here to stay. From professional athletes seeking a competitive edge to everyday individuals looking to optimize their health, the cold plunge offers a refreshing—and invigorating—way to enhance both body and mind.
Take The Plunge
If you're intrigued by the idea of cold plunging, there's never been a better time to give it a try. If it all seems too daunting (as it did to me), you can always start with a brisk cold shower or simply end your showers with a few seconds of cold water to slowly start reaping the benefits. Or, go ahead and dive headfirst into an ice bath if that sounds more like your speed, just remember to listen to your body and proceed at your own pace.
So, take the plunge—it just might be the coolest thing you do for your health this year.
