Chilly Swimming

After a long and busy half year of moving and getting settled in the Codys were relieved that summer holidays were here. This meant relaxing with no school and many little holidays, including going to Ocean City and Assateague Island. The Cody family were looking forward to going to the beach and enjoying a small break.

Everyone was surprised to know that the water in Ocean City water was only 18 degrees celsius. They found this out on the second day at Ocean City as the family was getting ready to go to the beach. Alex, Edelia and John were willing to swim in the ice cold water but Erin decided to watch while sitting on the sand. Why would you swim in freezing cold water? John says he finds it refreshing, but could there be other benefits?

Science proves that the shock of cold water whether it is a cold shower, ice bath, or swimming in the cold ocean can simulate your blood cells to help fight off disease, sickness and bad cells.  This would mean you wouldn't get sick as often. This was proved by a study in the Netherlands, which showed that people who switched to cold showers for 30 - 90 seconds for 90 days called in sick from work 29% less than people who didn't have cold showers. 

As well as fighting off sickness cold water can help you recover. When you change from hot to cold water your body goes into survival mode making sure it stays hot enough. Dr. Hame, an Orthopedic Sports Medic, says “Increasing circulation redistributes blood and delivers freshly oxygenated blood to areas of the body that need to recover. It decreases the time it takes your muscles to recover after exercise.”  This means that you recover quicker from injury or muscle growth by using cold water techniques.

Having a bad day? A cold shower could boost your mood. This is because it will refresh your mind which naturally makes your mood better. Cold water triggers nerves on your skin and boosts your mind which helps your body use oxygen more effectively. 

No one said forcing yourself into ice cold water for minutes at a time would be easy. It is a challenge but facing it can help build mental resilience. Taking a swim in cold water is out of your comfort zone and is a healthy shock to your body. Being able to control yourself even in chilly situations can help you in many things in life and not just having a daily cold shower.

All in all, cold showers everyday or a swim in the cold ocean could benefit you in the long run. It can help you recover while helping you not to get sick. It can even boost your mood and build mental resilience. Maybe having a dip in the ocean wasn't such a bad idea after all.