Although there is not a huge amount of research on the somatic effects of a cold shower a day, there is some research indicating it increases endorphins, energy, and immune function. I can say from personal experience that it increases my arousal and alertness beyond what a cup or two of morning coffee provides. A cold shower helps me shake off the grogginess of slumber and ready me to tackle my day. What else can it do? I have been in a breathwork group led by a highly experienced student of Wim Hoff. He instructed our group that a cold shower is a stressor, so remaining under the cold water while breathing in a regular, relaxed pattern increases the ability to stay grounded in situations that could provoke anxiety or panic. I notice that the duration of my episodes of regular, relaxed breathing under a cold shower keep increasing. This ability to breathe through a stressful situation can translate to other stressful situations. How about being stuck in traffic with a jerk behind you honking or trying to pass you? How about your boss, spouse or partner telling you “We’ve got to sit down and have a talk right now?” How about seeing an unexpected envelope from the IRS arriving shortly after you filed your taxes? The proof is in the pudding. Why not try it and see what happens?
