Ready to Put In the Work!
Can anyone relate? I want the benefits of the cold plunge, without the being cold part? Yesterday, I finally did what I've been trying to get myself to do for a few weeks, since it's gotten cold: I jumped into the outdoor pool while Cora was at swim practice. Yesterday, I found myself feeling agitated at various times throughout my day. I've been using the time during swim practice to get work done, and so have easily postponed my cold plunge plans...up until now. Last night, I made a commitment to myself. I could get work done AFTER my plunge.
So, geared up, jumped in, stayed for 4 minutes, and then I felt great afterwards. But I had also told myself I could reward myself with time in the steam room, which is my comfort. I always come out of there relaxed, refreshed, and feeling amazing. So, I spent 20 mins in the steam room. But then I questioned whether or not I just negated the effects of the cold plunge. Darn it!
So, I went back out to the pool and jumped in for another 4 minutes. Now, I don't know the temp of the outdoor pool right now. The second time I went out, there were almost 10 other guys doing the same thing. One guy told me the temp had raised up 10 degrees since 2 days ago, so it wasn't that bad. I know for sure it's not as cold as Puget Sound and probably not exactly what is prescribed for an icy cold plunge. But I do believe it did me some good and I definitely felt better last night, felt more grounded, and slept great. My plan is to continue this through the winter at the gym while Cora is at practice. It's a great way to slowly ease my way into it while the pool temp continues to drop. Are you interested in adding cold plunge to your routine? Do you already? I'd love to hear your plans or your stories in the comments.
Or maybe you're not ready for the cold plunge, but you do have other goals you've been wanting to reach. Maybe you've been putting off a good habit because you're afraid to put in the work for the results you want. Share your goals, plans, or stories below!
Interested in the cold plunge craze? Here are the details:
A cold plunge, also known as cold water immersion or cold therapy, involves immersing the body in cold water for a short period of time. This practice is often associated with various health benefits, but it's important to note that individual responses may vary. Here are some potential benefits and requirements for cold plunges:
Benefits:
1. Muscle Recovery:
- Cold water immersion is believed to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation after intense physical activity. It may help to speed up the recovery process for athletes.
2. Improved Circulation:
- Exposure to cold water can stimulate blood circulation and enhance the efficiency of the cardiovascular system.
3. Increased Metabolism:
- Cold exposure may activate brown adipose tissue, which can increase calorie expenditure and potentially support weight loss.
4. Mental Alertness:
- Cold water immersion is thought to increase alertness and improve mood by triggering the release of neurotransmitters like adrenaline and noradrenaline.
5. Stress Reduction:
- Cold water exposure may help reduce stress levels by activating the body's natural stress response mechanisms.
6. Improved Sleep:
- Some people report better sleep quality after cold water immersion, possibly due to the relaxation of the body and the release of endorphins.
Requirements:
1. Gradual Exposure:
- Beginners should start with short durations of cold exposure and gradually increase the time as the body becomes accustomed to the cold.
2. Temperature:
- The water temperature for a cold plunge can vary, but it's generally considered to be between 50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 15 degrees Celsius). Extremely cold temperatures can pose risks, so it's essential to find a balance that is challenging yet safe.
3. Supervision:
- If you are new to cold plunges, it's advisable to have someone present to monitor your safety, especially if you are immersing yourself in natural bodies of water.
4. Health Considerations:
- Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular problems, should consult with a healthcare professional before attempting cold water immersion.
5. Proper Hydration:
- Staying hydrated is crucial, as exposure to cold water can increase the body's water loss through mechanisms like shivering.
6. Clothing:
- Wear appropriate clothing to protect the extremities during cold exposure. For example, wearing a hat can help minimize heat loss from the head.
7. Post-Plunge Warm-up:
- After the cold plunge, it's important to warm up gradually to prevent temperature-related stress on the body.
While cold plunges can offer various benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain health conditions or sensitivities should exercise caution and seek advice from a healthcare professional before incorporating cold therapy into their routine.