Here’s Why Cold Plunging Should be a Part of Your Morning Routine
Start your day with a jolt of vitality by embracing the power of cold plunging in the morning.
This invigorating practice, rooted in ancient traditions, offers many physical and mental benefits.
A morning cold plunge can set the tone for a productive and energized day, boosting metabolism, enhancing resilience, improving skin health, and promoting mindfulness.
Cold plunging isn’t for everyone. In fact, the American Heart Association does not recommend that people with pre-existing heart conditions participate in cold plunges or contrast therapy. Why? Your heart will race, and you may feel out of breath, which can feel shocking (especially at first).
We highly recommend starting small and working your way up to longer cold plunges (here is our guide to preparing for a cold plunge and how to cold plunge safely!).
Yes, it’s hard to do, but don’t worry; studies show that just 11 minutes of cold exposure per week can provide all the benefits of cold plunging.
Let’s explore why cold plunging in the morning is more than just a trend—it’s a transformative ritual that can elevate your well-being and mindset.
Wake Up Faster
Cold water may be undefeated in waking you up. It works better than coffee!
While it may not be as pleasant as a warm cup of joe, your mind and body will become alert and ready to take on the day.
Cold water immersion gives the brain a rush of norepinephrine (Noradrenaline). The body’s natural response to stress triggers a flight or fight response, making you more alert.
Boost Your Mood
Waking up on the wrong side of the bed can impact your entire day. Turn your mood around early by shocking your system and giving your brain a rush of endorphins that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Studies show that after a 57° cold plunge, dopamine levels rise by 530%. Between the increased production of dopamine and noradrenaline, a cold plunge will improve your level of happiness, so why not take the plunge regularly?
Clear Your Mind
Grogginess is the enemy of the morning, but that brain fog can be lifted with the help of your favorite source of cold water.
Cold plunging can significantly enhance mental clarity by stimulating blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, which sharpens focus and cognitive function.
Over time, cold water immersion can improve your ability to think, make decisions, and maintain mental sharpness throughout the day, making it an effective tool for enhancing cognitive performance.
Enhance Resilience
Cold plunging is not easy! When you start your day with a difficult challenge like this, the rest of your tasks will appear more effortless and manageable.
Cold plunging in the morning enhances resilience by exposing your body and mind to controlled stress. The sudden cold shock triggers your fight-or-flight response, teaching your body to manage stress more effectively. Over time, this strengthens your mental toughness and ability to handle daily challenges.
Also, regular cold exposure can increase one's tolerance to discomfort, boost one's immune system, and improve one's body’s ability to adapt to various physical and mental stressors.
This daily practice builds resilience, helping you stay calm and focused in difficult situations.
Promote Blood Flow
After a long night’s rest, your body is stationary. A cold plunge will get blood flowing to your muscles and joints and send blood to your brain.
When you dip into the bone-chillingly cold water, you may start to breathe heavier.
Getting your blood flowing early primes you for a productive, energized, and joyous day.
Reduce Inflammation
Reducing inflammation with a cold plunge in the morning is essential because it helps alleviate muscle soreness, speeds up recovery, and reduces swelling.
Starting the day with reduced inflammation sets a strong foundation for physical and mental well-being, helping you feel refreshed and ready for the day ahead.
Accelerate Your Metabolism
Cold plunging in the morning can boost metabolism by activating brown fat, which burns calories to generate heat and maintain body temperature. This process increases the energy spent, helping burn more calories throughout the day.
The cold shock stimulates the release of adrenaline and other hormones that enhance metabolic rate.
Cold water immersion can also help reduce the amount of lymph fluid buildup in cells and organs, improving body function and leading to a slimmer figure.
Improve Your Skin and Hair
Cold plunging can improve skin and hair by tightening pores, reducing excess oil production, and minimizing the appearance of pores, leading to a smoother complexion.
The cold water also constricts blood vessels, reducing puffiness and inflammation, which can help with conditions like acne or redness.
The improved circulation from the cold plunge also delivers more nutrients and oxygen to the skin and scalp, promoting healthier skin and hair over time.
Sleep Better
Cold plunging in the morning can improve the quality of your sleep by making it less likely for you to wake up in the middle of the night.
Exposing your body to cold water boosts alertness and energy during the day, promoting relaxation later in the day, which can also help you feel more naturally tired at night.
Regular cold plunging can improve your overall stress resilience, leading to a calmer mind and better sleep quality.
This consistent routine signals to your body when it’s time to be awake and when to wind down, ultimately enhancing sleep patterns.
Increase Mindfulness
Cold plunging in the morning is good for mindfulness because it requires you to focus on your breath and stay present to manage the intense cold sensation.
This practice sharpens your awareness and brings your attention to the physical experience, helping you develop a stronger mind-body connection.
By consistently practicing cold plunging, you train your mind to stay calm and focused under stress, which can improve your ability to stay present and mindful throughout the day.
This early-morning practice sets a positive, centered tone for the day ahead.
Gain access to the private Contrast Therapy room at Hope Floats in Bethesda, MD to alternate between the 45° cold plunge and soothing infrared sauna.
Incorporating cold plunging into your morning routine is more than just a way to wake up—it’s a powerful tool for enhancing your overall well-being.
The benefits of this practice are vast and transformative, ranging from boosting mental clarity and resilience to improving skin, hair, and sleep.
By starting your day with a cold plunge, you’re priming your body and mind for success and cultivating a daily ritual that promotes mindfulness, reduces inflammation, and accelerates metabolism.
Embrace the cold experience and its profound impact on your life, and make it a part of your self-care routine!