Cold Water Swimming is Your Next Great Love.
We’ve all seen them. The TikTok’s, Reels, Facebook posts where people dunk themselves in ice cold baths or plunge into the icy seas, exclaiming its the best experience in the world. So, the question is why? Cold water swimming and all associated activities have gained considerable popularity in recent years, captivating the attention of many seeking unique ways to improve their physical and mental well-being. While the idea of diving into ice cold water may seem horrible, the benefits are actually really intriguing. There is plenty of evidence to suggest that cold water activities positively impact your health and we are going to try and encourage you to take the icy leap.
What’s the ‘Freezing’ Point?
One of the biggest proponents many people express after consistently going cold water swimming is an increased tolerance to stress. The shock of cold water initiates a stress response in the body, leading to the release of cortisol, the stress hormone. This physiological reaction mirrors the fight or flight response we experience during tense situations. Over time, the exposure to cold water builds a resilience to this process and reduces the stress response in other challenging scenarios, such as high intensity tasks or facing specific fears. Cold water swimming becomes a powerful tool to enhance your overall ability to manage your stress.
As well as this, swimming is already known as an intense cardio workout, but cold water swimming takes that beyond simply getting your heart going. Cold water swimming challenges your cardiovascular system as you have to adjust to both the exercise itself and the decreasing temperature, promoting improved heart health and circulation. However, it's crucial to prepare for the challenge and gradually acclimate to the cold water. Experimenting with breathing techniques, such as bilateral breathing, and starting with a wetsuit to minimise the cold's impact are recommended steps for a safe and enjoyable experience, especially in the beginning.
Cold, Hard Mindfulness
As well as this, swimming in these kinds of temperatures can also be an awesome mindfulness exercise. Immersing yourself in cold water overwhelms the nervous system, redirecting your focus to the intense sensations it evokes. As nerve endings transmit signals to the brain about the cold, there is little room for intrusive thoughts, worries, or distractions. Cold water swimming becomes a mindfulness exercise, offering respite from the chatter of everyday life and fostering a deep sense of presence in the moment. Also, Mark Harper, a researcher from the University of Portsmouth, explains that submerging the face in cold water activates the parasympathetic nervous system, inducing this state of relaxation. This response releases chemicals like serotonin and noradrenaline, believed to create pain-inhibiting pathways in the brain. The relaxation induced by cold water can then contribute to reduced inflammation and improved overall well-being.
Unsurprisingly, knowing you can be calm, cool, and collected in cold water situations definitely boosts a person’s self-esteem. Engaging in cold water swimming requires mental strength and the willingness to step outside your comfort zone. The act of persisting in the cold water cultivates confidence, courage, and a sense of accomplishment. By embracing discomfort and challenging yourself, you develop resilience that extends to other areas of life, boosting self-esteem and personal growth.
Cold water swimming offers a myriad of benefits for all of us seeking to enhance our physical and mental health. From increased stress tolerance and self-esteem to improved cardiovascular health and enhanced mindfulness, taking the plunge into icy waters really can be transformative. As with any new activity, it's essential to approach cold water swimming, with proper preparation and acclimation, it’s going to get a little uncomfortable. But, dive into the world of cold-water swimming, and embrace the invigorating experience to discover the remarkable benefits it holds for your well-being.
