Why would I have a horrible cold shower over a nice warm one?
Good question. The answer is not so simple. Warm showers are great, we all know that. 99% of people, when given the chance, probably choose a warm or hot shower over a freezing cold one. Largely for one reason, it's more comfortable.
It's more comfortable. Now of cause, we all understand this reason. A warm shower can be the most relaxing part of your day. For many, it serves as a calming catalyst before bed, or a way to clean just before work in the mornings. Warm showers definitely have they’re place don’t get me wrong. But where a warm shower calms and relaxes, a cold shower does exactly the opposite.
By turning the temperature on the dial all the way to the bottom, saying F*** it and jumping in, a few things will happen. Firstly, you will regret ever even thinking about why you decided to try this stupidly insane task. Why would you put yourself through this ordeal?! YOUR CRAZY! As the freezing cold water soaks into your skin, your muscles will instantly tense and breathing will be fast, as if you just ran a mile in two minutes. I think this is where the benefits begin. Breathing increases the amount of oxygen into your system, oxygenating muscles, organs and the brain. Meditation and other breathing methods have huge beneficial effects which are largely due to oxygen consumption (or carbon dioxide exhalation). You start to feel full of energy and alive in a matter of seconds. I generally like to have a good upbeat tune on because this is my favourite part, jamming to music!
I’m feeling good, now, about 30 seconds have passed and I’m used to the temperature. My body is in fight or flight mode and Tyler the Creator is pumping me up. Honestly, after thirty seconds you’re awake and the cold now seems very bearable, almost warm!
A cold shower really counts if your in there for 3 minutes or more, this will give you the best results. But enough of what it feels like, what are the results? Well, I’d like to think taking a cold shower is a coffee replacer. You feel lifted, happy, light, strong, skin feels tighter, focused, alive, proud and excited for the day ahead. While it’s hard to jump into a freezing cold shower, it's hard to not feel immensely proud of yourself after getting out of one. I feel like I have more testosterone as well throughout the day. Today, for example, i've been extremely confident and people have been drawn towards me. I've been extroverted and positive towards everyone. I’ve been the King of myself and everyone has noticed, let alone been inspired!
To conclude, cold showers may be uncomfortable, but is it really more uncomfortable than being depressed, shy, cowardly and weak?
Thanks for reading,
James.
References: Image 1 - Google Images