While it may seem unpleasant, exposing yourself to cold has actually been shown to have a range of health benefits.

From improving your immune system to reducing inflammation, read on to find out why you might want to start taking cold showers or even swimming in cold water.

1. Boosts the Immune System

When you expose yourself to cold temperatures, your body has to work harder to maintain a stable internal temperature. This can stimulate your immune system, by increasing the production of white blood cells and increasing the activity of immune cells.

One study showed that people who regularly swam in cold water had higher levels of immune cells and a stronger immune response, compared to those who did not.

2. Can Improve Mood and Reduce Depression

Cold exposure can also affect your mental state, by triggering the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters. Endorphins are chemicals in your brain that can reduce pain and improve mood, and are often released during exercise.

Cold water swimming, for example, has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and fatigue.

3. May Help with Weight Loss

Cold exposure can also help with weight loss, by increasing your metabolism and encouraging your body to burn more calories.

One study found that participants who spent two hours a day in a room at 66 degrees Fahrenheit burned an extra 100 calories per day, compared to those who were in a warmer room. Another study showed that regular cold exposure increased brown fat, a type of fat that burns calories to generate heat.

4. Can Reduce Inflammation

Cold exposure has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help with conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain.

One study showed that cold water immersion reduced muscle soreness and inflammation after exercise, while another showed that people who regularly took cold showers had lower levels of inflammation markers.

5. Improves Circulation and Recovery

Cold exposure can also improve circulation and speed up recovery time after exercise or injury. This is because cold temperatures cause your blood vessels to constrict, which can reduce swelling and promote healing.

Related Article The Healing Powers of Cold Exposure

One study showed that cold water immersion improved muscle recovery and reduced pain in athletes, while another found that exposure to cold air increased blood flow and improved recovery in patients with peripheral arterial disease.

6. Can Improve Sleep

Cold exposure can also help with sleep, by promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. One study showed that people who took cold showers before bed had deeper and more restful sleep, and felt more alert and energized the next day.

7. May Increase Longevity

Cold exposure has also been linked to increased longevity, by stimulating cellular repair and reducing the risk of age-related diseases.

One study showed that cold exposure increased lifespan in mice, while another suggested that exposure to cold temperatures may improve mitochondrial function, which plays a key role in aging and disease.

8. Can Improve Skin Health

Cold exposure may also have benefits for your skin, by improving circulation and stimulating collagen production.

Cold water immersion has been shown to help with conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, while cold showers can make your skin look brighter and more toned.

9. Strengthens Willpower and Mental Toughness

Finally, cold exposure can also strengthen your willpower and mental toughness, by pushing you out of your comfort zone and challenging you to endure discomfort.

Many endurance athletes and Navy SEALs use cold exposure as a way to build mental resilience and prepare for challenging situations.

Conclusion

In summary, exposing yourself to cold may have a range of health benefits, including boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, improving mood and sleep, promoting weight loss and circulation, and even increasing longevity.

While it may be uncomfortable at first, incorporating cold exposure into your daily routine can be a powerful way to improve your physical and mental health.