Boosting immunity
Another surprising benefit of cold showers is improved immunity. One study showed that immersion in 13.9°C water for one hour, three times a week, for six weeks, increases the number of lymphocytes, white blood cells that fight bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Another study found that swimming in winter reduces respiratory infections by 40%.
Improved mental resilience
Taking cold showers requires a certain amount of mental fortitude, as few people enjoy cold temperatures. However, overcoming this discomfort can improve tolerance to unpleasant situations and help better manage daily stress. Wim Hoff, an extreme athlete nicknamed "the Iceman," is a strong advocate of cold exposure for building mental resilience.
Weight loss aid
Exposure to cold activates brown fat, a specific type of body fat that produces heat to maintain body temperature, thus increasing metabolism. One study showed that staying in 20°C water for an hour increases metabolic rate by nearly 100%, and in 13.9°C water, by up to 350%. This can lead to further fat loss.
