Why Cold Water Exposure Is So Good For You
(and how meditation can help!)
Growing up, nature was a huge part of my upbringing. Every year when spring rolled around, we would challenge ourselves to go in the lake as early as we could. The more ice surrounding us, the better. Sounds crazy, right? Turns out there was a method to our madness, and legitimate reasons as to why we felt SO good submerging ourselves in cold water.
Chances are you’ve seen this on Instagram or heard about it on podcasts - where successful people talk about their morning routine and how they prime themselves for the day. Think Tony Robbins. And shows like ‘the Goop Lab’ on Netflix (such a goodie!) which did an episode on it as well. The reason? It works!
What is cold exposure, exactly?
Cold exposure consists of submerging yourself in cold temperatures for a brief period of time (this can range from 10 seconds to 5 minutes). It is common to do via water. Another popular method is ‘Cryotherapy’ - a cold air tank which remains at freezing/near freezing temperatures.
What are the benefits?
You feel AMAZING afterward
Your brain chemistry gets involved. Cold exposure has “neuroprotective” effects and activates a specific adrenal hormone (norepinephrine) which helps you naturally boost your mood
You reduce inflammation in the body & soothe sore muscles
How to do it?
In order to surmount the very real fear of freezing, there is a specific breathing technique used. I’m a big fan of the Wim Hof Method - he’s got an app that teaches you the specifics. It consists of a deep inhale through the mouth, followed by a big exhale out through the mouth. It is not uncommon to feel slightly dizzy when breathing this way because we are filling our lungs & brain with way more oxygen than we’re used to.
I do this on land for approximately 30-40 breaths. *Cue the ground is frozen tip toe as I walk through the snow & enter the water*
Once in, I relax as much as possible. Switching my breathing to a more natural rhythm, in & out through my nose. Meditation has helped me a lot with this. By focusing on my breathing, I am able to take myself away from the cold. Just like how we are able to distance ourselves from fear, anxiety & stress with a meditation practice, we are also able to distance ourselves from the ‘Holy shit this is freezing cold. I can’t do it’ narrative that is running through our minds. My sister even said to me when I was doing it the other day “you seem pretty chill”. That, my love, is meditation for you!
When I’m feeling extra frigid, I switch back to the Wim Hof style of breathing to help my body & brain cope with the cold.
If you’re trying it at home, build your way up slowly. Start with a dip, then 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc. or whatever time sits right with you.
If you don’t have access to a cold body of water:
Your shower is THE place to be, babe!
30 seconds cold, 30 seconds warm x 3
Remember to breathe throughout!
Take care after
This is important as it lets your body know it’s safe.
#1 Get warm! Gloves, Socks, Jacket, the works.
Honestly, for me the only parts of my body that are cold after & while doing it are my fingers and toes. The reason? Blood circulates away from non-vital organs, protecting your body from shutting down. Get your fingers & toes covered. Everywhere else - chest, legs, arms, brain... feel SO good and alive. You normally end up warming up within 20 seconds or so. The body is pretty amazing that way!
#2 : Meditate afterwards if you can
Get super cozy inside, take a warm shower if you have to, then wrap yourself up in a blanket.
For a guided practice; check out my free 11 minute ‘Meditation to Restore’ in the Meditation Library
This is a routine that I’ve really come to CRAVE throughout my days, it makes your cells sing with joy, your brain light up & you feel totally invincible. If you try it out, let me know! I would love to hear how you felt.
Sending you sunshine,
xox, Jewels
Posting a loud disclaimer for all to see: PLEASE, love. Use your beautiful brain if you’re attempting this in nature. Buddy system. DO NOT attempt alone. This is super important: always have someone with you on the shoreline. Consult your doctor and/or medical practitioner before trying if you have existing medical conditions.