"Chilling Out: The Mental Health Benefits of Ice Baths"
Date: Wednesday 06 Nov 2024
The growing trend of “cold water immersion” — immersing yourself in ice baths or taking cold showers — is promoted as providing physical and mental health benefits. Most prior research has focused on physical health benefits.
Research suggests that ice baths, a growing trend in cold water immersion, offer significant mental health benefits, including improved mood and reduced anxiety. Studies show that cold water exposure leads to immediate mood enhancements and lasting psychological effects. Key neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation, namely dopamine and norepinephrine, are elevated after ice baths, with dopamine levels increasing by 250% and norepinephrine levels by 530%. This elevation in neurotransmitters may help combat symptoms of depression and anxiety. Notably, a case study reported that a woman with major depressive disorder experienced relief after four months of cold water swimming, eventually discontinuing medication and remaining symptom-free for a year.
“I think the main mental health benefits of cold water immersion are psychological… It can be scary, so when you are doing it, you are overcoming your fear. This feels good, like mastering any difficult feat.” Will Cronenwett
Ice Baths: A Boost for Mental Wellbeing
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Research indicates ice baths improve mood and reduce anxiety. Cold water immersion elevates dopamine by 250% and norepinephrine by 530%, aiding in mood regulation. Read more.
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A case study shows a woman with major depressive disorder found relief through cold water swimming, discontinuing medication after four months.
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Experts like Will Cronenwett and Andrew Huberman highlight ice baths' role in building resilience and stress management skills.
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Cold water immersion activates the parasympathetic nervous system, beneficial for PTSD sufferers, promoting relaxation.
In addition to mood enhancement, ice baths may help build resilience and stress management skills. Experts like Will Cronenwett and Andrew Huberman note that facing the stress of cold water immersion can train the brain to handle challenges better.
Furthermore, cold water immersion may calm the nervous system, making it particularly beneficial for individuals with PTSD, as it activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes feelings of relaxation. Nonetheless, individuals with pre-existing conditions are advised to consult a healthcare provider before trying ice baths, with optimal temperatures recommended between 10° and 15°C. These findings highlight the value of ice baths as a promising practice for enhancing mental well-being.