The power of cold water therapy. Does it help?

I’m just going to say it, cold water therapy is weirdly life-changing. I remember the first time I dunked my face into icy water or took a cold shower; I thought, “Who actually enjoys this?” Spoiler: nobody. It’s shocking, uncomfortable, and at first, honestly kind of miserable. Actually, that’s a lie, I lowkey enjoy swimming in an icy cold ocean (for some reason).

But here’s the thing: that initial shock is exactly why it works. Cold water therapy, whether it’s a cold shower, a quick plunge in a pool, or even splashing your face with ice-cold water, triggers your body’s nervous system in ways that can actually help your mental health.

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety.
   Cold water activates the sympathetic nervous system, which is basically your body’s “fight or flight” mode. The controlled stress of cold exposure can help train your body to handle anxiety better, lowering overall stress levels over time.
2. Boosts Mood.
   When your body reacts to the cold, it releases endorphins, the feel-good chemicals that give you a natural high. This can improve mood, reduce feelings of depression, and leave you feeling oddly energized and alive.
3. Improves Circulation & Alertness.
   Cold water forces your blood to circulate more efficiently. That extra circulation can wake you up, clear your head, and help you feel more present, which is especially helpful if anxiety makes your thoughts spiral.
4. Builds Mental Resilience.
   It’s not just about the body, it’s about proving to yourself that you can handle discomfort. That mental discipline can translate to handling life’s unpredictable stressors with a bit more calm.

Look, I’m not going to lie: it’s uncomfortable. Sometimes it’s brutal. But the payoff is real. Even 30 seconds under a cold shower or a splash of icy water on your face can make you feel alert, grounded, and oddly proud of yourself. It’s a small, simple tool for managing stress and anxiety that costs nothing, other than a little courage.

If you’re anxious, stressed, or just curious, start small. A cold splash in the morning or a quick icy shower can be a total reset for your mind. And if nothing else, it’s a reminder that discomfort doesn’t have to be scary, sometimes it’s exactly what we need.