The Wim Hof (Ice man) Method - What are the Benefits of Cold Showers!?

The Wim Hof (Ice man) Method - What are the Benefits of Cold Showers!?

At Practical Inspiration we learn from Wim Hof, also know as the Ice Man (Iceman), who is a great example on why we should take cold showers. So in this video, we look at the benefits of cold showers and how to use the Wim Hof breathing technique for helping you take cold showers.

What are the benefits?

1. Increases Alertness
Due to the sudden change in temperature, our bodies naturally go into a state of initial shock and our breathing patterns can be uncomfortable, or we even hyper ventilate. However with deep breathing, in response to our body’s shock not only helps to keep us warm, but it also increases our overall oxygen intake. As a result, we'll get a natural dose of energy for the day.

2. Improves Hair and Skin
When it comes to hair and skin, cold showers can be highly beneficial and are one of the most natural ways to maintain your appearance. The reason for this is hot water actually dries out our skin, as it strips the skin of its natural oils that prevent it from drying out and crackles or wrinkles appearing.

Cold water on the other hand actually tighten pores, which prevent them from getting clogged and prevent dirt from getting in.

3. Helps Stimulate Weight Loss
One of the lesser known facts about cold showers is they can aid weight loss. This is because the human body contains two types of fat tissue, white and brown fat. White fat accumulates when we consume more calories than our body needs to function. Brown fat is considered a healthy fat, which is used to generate heat to keep our bodies warm and is activated when our bodies are exposed to extreme cold.

4. Improves the Immune System and Circulation
Cold water can improve circulation by encouraging blood to surround our organs, which can then help combat some problems of the skin and heart. As cold water hits the body, it's ability to get blood circulating leads the arteries to more efficiently pump blood, therefore boosting our overall heart health.

5. Eases Stress
One of the greatest benefits of cold showers is they can ease stress. By jumping into the shower without letting it heat up, you can help promote hardening, increasing your tolerance to stress and even disease.

6. Relieves Depression

Cold showers can ease stress and this in turn has been shown to relieve depression symptoms due to the intense impact of cold receptors in the skin. This activity sends an overwhelming amount of electrical impulses from the peripheral nerve endings to the brain, which in response produces an antidepressive effect and boosts moods, acting as a pick-me-up.

7. Speeds Up Muscle Soreness and Recovery
Studies have shown that people who rested themselves in cold water after an intense workout found that 24-minute cold water baths were effective in relieving sore muscles one to four days after exercises.

Consider these benefits of cold showers in the morning and why cold showers are good for you and soon you will understand why you should take cold showers and finally answer the question..."are cold showers good for you?".

I often get asked, "why do guys take cold showers" and hopefully this video explains why, as well as how to take a cold shower.

So take on the cold shower challenge and enjoy the cold shower therapy!

Please practice the Wim Hof method safely:

"The breathing exercises can have strong physiological effects, and must be practiced as instructed. Always perform them in a safe environment, sitting or lying down. Never practice the exercises before or during diving, driving, swimming, taking a bath, or in any other circumstance where loss of consciousness could result in bodily harm. Wim Hof breathing may cause tingling sensations, a ringing in the ears, and/or lightheadedness. These are normal responses and are no cause for alarm. If you faint, however, you have gone too far, and should take it more slowly next time.

The cold is a powerful force, and extreme cold can be a shock to your body. We strongly advise to start slow and gradually build up exposure. Always train without forcing anything, and listen to the signals from your body. If not practiced responsibly, there is risk of hypothermia.

Do not practice the method during pregnancy, or if you are epileptic. People with cardiovascular issues, or any other serious health conditions, should always consult a medical professional before starting the Wim Hof Method."

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