Hydrotherapy has been used as a healing method for as far back as we can tell. Using water at varying temperatures boasts impressive benefits to multiple organ systems in the body, (R) but in this post I’d like to spend a little time focusing on the cold!
Ice-bathing, cold showers, and cryotherapy all impose a form of stress on the body called hormesis which forces an adaptive response by cells throughout the body (R). This stress response is in many ways beneficial, ultimately activating gene pathways involved in rejuvenation. (In a previous post, I’ve covered some of the beneficial effects of sauna use, which works in a similar way, albeit at the other end of the temperature spectrum.)
Read on to discover the many ways cold showers can increase brain function, reduce pain, enhance your immunity, reduce recovery time and even help you lose weight!
DISCLAIMER: While intermittent cold showers and brief periods of cold-water immersion might be safe (and beneficial) for the general population, if you are on any medications or have any medical condition, make sure your doctor approves your use of cold water hydrotherapy. This post is meant to inform and educate—it is not a replacement for medical advice and should not be construed as such.
