Scientists from the Czech Republic immersed subjects in cold water for one hour, three times a week and monitored their physiology. They found significant increases in white blood cell counts and several other factors relating to the immune system. This was attributed to the cold water being a mild stressor which activates the immune system and gives it some practice.Endorphins are the body’s natural pain killers and, in the case of a cold dip, it uses them to take the sting away from your skin.The cold will also stimulate your parasympathetic system, which is responsible for rest and repair, and this can trigger the release of dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters are a vital part of keeping us happy and low levels of them are linked with depression. Couple this effect with the endorphin rush as you take the plunge and it should make for a warm glow and a wide smile when you re-emerge.Being hot brings blood to surface. Being cold sends it to your organs. Both extremes work your heart like a pump. Increased blood flow helps flush your circulation, pushing blood through all your capillaries, veins and arteries. It will exfoliate your skin and flush impurities from it, thus helping your complexion (firm-bodied women of all ages around pool sides say it stops cellulite). Evidence also demonstrates that your body adapts to the cold with repeated exposure and this may improve your circulation, particularly to your extremities.
Posted on: Sat, 13 Jul 2013 11:38:12 +0000