Why say yes to a cold shower in winter? Know the benefits

Many of us might have come across winter-special social media challenges, one of which is taking a cold shower on a chilly morning. Those who go for it even compare the activity to extreme sports at times and make interesting comments like, 'The only warm thing about my cold winter shower is my anger.' Regardless, taking a cold shower during winter has its own benefits. It can improve blood circulation while boosting immunity and keeping away stress. Those who advocate it also say that it improves focus, alertness, and willpower, and it even gives you an easy sense of accomplishment! Here are some of the health benefits of enjoying a cold shower.

Metabolism
Cold water activates brown fat, which helps improve metabolism and shed body weight.
Skin health
Cold water can close the pores on the skin, reduce excessive oil production and keep away acne breakouts. Besides aiding hair growth, cold showers can prevent split ends while adding a gorgeous shine to your luscious locks.
Sleep
When you take a cold shower, your body temperature reduces, aiding the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates your sleep.

Hormone production
Cold showers can help increase testosterone production in men. Meanwhile, in women, taking a bath in cold water ensures hormone balance and reduces the hormone imbalance that causes stress.
Increases blood circulation
When cold water touches the body, the blood vessels contract, improving blood circulation to all the major organs. This increases the rate of oxygen and nutrient absorption and protects the heart, too.
Boosts immunity
Taking cold showers regularly increases the production of white blood cells, boosting the body’s immunity and reducing bacterial infections and diseases.

Boost of energy
Cold showers can increase heart and respiratory rates, providing a sudden boost of energy and calmness.
Muscle strength
Taking a cold shower can reduce inflammation and increase muscle strength. Meanwhile, the contraction of the blood vessels expels toxins.
Reduces stress
Being in contact with cold water stimulates the parasympathetic nerves, increasing endorphin production. This could reduce stress and anxiety and keep away the symptoms of depression.

Builds resilience
Taking a cold shower during the winter improves our resilience and strength. This could be seen as training for acquiring a resilient nature in all walks of life.
Reduces inflammation
Cold water reduces blood circulation to the areas with inflammation, which is extremely soothing for those with joint pain.
Improved respiration
Cold showers can increase the lung capacity and improve the efficacy of oxygen.