You may have heard of a trending phenomenon called cold exposure. But what is it and does it benefit your health?
To help you understand this concept, Greg Lindberg, wellness advocate, entrepreneur, philanthropist and author, explains cold exposure and its effects on your overall health and wellness.
“Scientific data suggests that cold exposure can have a multitude of great effects on your health,” says Lindberg. “But it’s important to commit long-term and practice safely.”
What is Cold Exposure
Cold exposure or cryotherapy if a form of short exposure to cold through ice baths, cold showers or cold plunge for a few minutes.
While this phenomenon has existed for thousands of years, people are adding cold exposure to their daily regimen to help treat many different health symptoms.
Benefits
Data suggests that cold exposure, when applied repeatedly, can help reduce inflammation and swelling, relieve sore muscles, ease exercise recovery, reduce body temperature, support immunity, improve mental health and boost your mood.
“I introduced cold showers to my routine a few years ago, and I’ve never looked back,” says Lindberg. “While it’s difficult to adjust to the temperature at first, I now look forward to them every morning. As a result, I feel more alert, stronger and more focused and ready to take on the day.”
Ways to Practice Cold Exposure
If you’re interested in incorporating cold exposure, make sure you start small. Lindberg says you have to slowly ease into the routine to avoid complications or harm your health.
While there’s no official recommendation, people typically spend 5 to 10 minutes in 50 to 59 degree water. Most people tend to do a cold bath or cold shower every 48 hours.
Risks
Cold exposure may pose a risk to people with chronic conditions like blood pressure, heart disease and other health issues. It’s always important to speak to your healthcare provider if cold exposure is appropriate for you and your health.