I know what you’re thinking. “A cold shower….are you crazy?” Hear me out. And this is not only beneficial for those who live in Arizona where summer temperatures can reach as high as 123 a couple of weeks ago but for anyone living anywhere. As an upper cervical chiropractor in Phoenix, I believe taking a cold shower can help you in many ways.
Sure we all know a nice hot shower is one of the best feelings in the world. It’s relaxing, reflective, and simply just feels good. But research is continuing to suggest several possible health benefits to taking a cold shower. A simple Google search will give you plenty of ideas behind this. But I want to focus on 3 that I think are most important.
1. Increased energy
Taking a cold shower first thing in the morning will literally wake you up. Stepping into a cold shower will cause you to breathe more deeply and boost your heart rate. Your body can take in more oxygen and distribute it faster to keep your body warm. This process will make you feel mentally alert, and perhaps more ready to take on the day.
2. It’s a natural antidepressant
The National Institute of Health published a study in 2008 that demonstrated the potential benefits of cold showers being a natural antidepressant. The density of cold receptors (the parts of our body that can sense cold) in the skin is estimated to be three to ten times higher than that of warm receptors. Research suggests that the simultaneous firing of all skin based cold receptors from jumping into cold water may result in a positive therapeutic effect.
It has also been shown that lowering the temperature of the brain has neuroprotective and therapeutic effects that can relieve inflammation, which is a known mechanism in those who struggle with depression. Also, exposure to cold activates the sympathetic nervous system. This will increase blood flow as well as the brain’s release of norepinephrine – an adrenal hormone that helps us feel alert and “up.” Cold showers can also help increase production of beta-endorphins – ‘feel good’ molecules that give a sense of well-being.
3. Increased confidence and motivation
Stepping into a cold shower is by no means an easy task. Can you imagine the adrenaline rush you’d experience by tackling such a challenge first thing in the morning? Not only are there serious health benefits but conquering an obstacle at the start of your day is a sure-fire way to be more productive and motivated to tackle any challenge that comes your way.
I’m not saying that anything else you encounter that day will be easy. But odds are you will be more ready to handle whatever lemons life hands you.
If you are one of the millions of individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue you may benefit from the work we do in our office. By focusing on the proper function and stabilization of your nervous system we have been able to help individuals conquer some big health challenges. Schedule a consultation with our chiropractor in Phoenix to see if you’re a good fit for our office. We are here to help.
Dr. Cameron Call
602-753-7782