Most of us will surely cringe at the thought of taking cold showers. We always want to take that nice warm shower at the end of a long and hectic day. Hence, we shiver involuntarily at the thought of having a cold one. Some may like it hot but did you know that taking cold showers can benefit you, too?
Benefits
Cold showers are sometimes called the “James Bond shower” or the “Scottish shower”. Though we will not become as celebrated as James Bond is, let us still enjoy the surprising benefits that they bring. Also, you can minimize the impact of the cold water on your skin when you use a walk-in shower or a shower enclosure (click here for more information on walk-in showers).
- A cold shower increases your level of alertness
A cold shower can boost your energy levels. The deep breaths you take just when the cold water hits you will naturally increase your heart rate. It also increases the amount of oxygen that you take in. This leaves you feeling alert all and energetic day.
- It improves circulation
A cold shower stimulates your circulatory system. The cold lets your blood flow more to your organs to maintain their warmth. In the same manner, this stimulates the arteries to pump blood more efficiently. This helps to fight against cardiovascular and skin ailments.
- It refines and beautifies your hair and skin
A cold shower is actually a free hair and beauty treatment. It tightens and closes up your skin pores giving you a finer complexion. It also prevents dirt from entering your skin and scalp. In fact, it is advisable that you end a hot shower with a cold one. One other benefit is that cold showers make your hair shinier and silkier.
- Strengthens and Improves your immunity
A recent study revealed a significant 35% decrease in the incidence of sickness absence for those who took hot to cold showers. Another study also revealed that daily brief cold stress (from a shower) can increase the numbers and activity of T-lymphocytes. The immune T-lymphocytes, together with “B cells”, helps the immune system function properly. They are also responsible for a number of our body’s immune responses.
- Promotes weight loss
There are two types of fat in our body, the white fat and the brown one. White fat is what stays in our bellies and waists. On the other hand, brown fat generates heat thereby keeping us warm. The exposure to extremely cold temperatures, like that of a cold shower, activates this function.
- Relieves depression
The intense impact of the cold water on our skin produces an effect that can counter depression. It boosts one’s disposition and effectively perks people up.
These are just some of the benefits that cold showers provide. However, you might find it difficult to take that first step in taking one. The thought, alone, gives you Goosebumps. You can rest easy, though; you actually do not have to start with a cold one. You can have a hot shower first. Then, in the final three minutes, turn your cold water knob on. In this way, you start to get the hang of cold showers. And in no time, you can start reaping all these benefits.