With the feels-like temperature hitting the teens in Atlanta, it would be an appropriate time to remind y’all that getting cold is GOOD for you, and you should have the opportunity that mother nature is giving us to benefit your health.
The benefits of cold exposure are:
- Reduces Inflammation:
- Lowers inflammation in muscles and joints.
- Speeds up recovery after intense exercise.
- Improves Circulation:
- Promotes better blood flow by constricting and dilating blood vessels.
- Enhances Immune Function:
- Stimulates production of white blood cells.
- Builds resilience against common illnesses.
- Boosts Mood and Mental Health:
- Releases endorphins, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Activates the vagus nerve, improving emotional regulation.
- Increases Metabolism:
- Activates brown fat, leading to increased calorie burn.
- Supports weight management.
- Improves Sleep Quality:
- Lowers core body temperature, aiding deeper sleep.
- Calms the nervous system before bed.
- Enhances Resilience:
- Builds mental toughness by tolerating extreme conditions.
- Reduces sensitivity to stressors over time.
- Relieves Pain:
- Acts as a natural analgesic for chronic pain or injuries.
- Numbs localized pain temporarily.
- Improves Skin Health:
- Tightens pores and reduces puffiness.
- Promotes healthier skin through better circulation.
- Supports Hormonal Balance:
- May boost testosterone and other beneficial hormones.
- Regulates cortisol levels.
Regular cold exposure amplifies these effects, especially when paired with a consistent recovery routine that includes massage, myofascial release work, and stretching.
The science-backed cold exposure protocol is to go outside in shorts and ideally no shirt or a sports bra with socks, shoes, and gloves on for an 11-minute-per-week TOTAL. NOT per session, but 2-4 sessions lasting 1-5 mins each distributed across the week. Basically, stand outside while your dogs go pee in the morning in your shorts, and you are good!
