YES!YES!

I ain't reading that shit unless it says yes. Put differently, the amount of serious, heavy-hitting evidence ("evidence") you need to put before me for my mind to be changed here is staggering. OK, fine, maybe I accept that it doesn't do any measurable WONDERS (curing cancer, rockets to Mars, fountain of youth etc) but there's no way "science" or "experts" undermine this #1507948

Venturing into cold water can act as a controlled stressor. The body responds instantly: skin temperature drops, heart rate and blood pressure rise, and blood vessels constrict to preserve heat in the core. At the same time, stress hormones such as cortisol and norepinephrine are released

Yes, them releasing and the body panicking under safe, controlled circumstances is sort of the point.

With repeated exposure, this brief stress can train the body to become more resilient – a phenomenon known as hormesis. “The body dampens its stress response, reducing chronic inflammation and insulin resistance,” says Harper. It also activates brown fat, which helps regulate temperature and metabolism, thereby increasing energy expenditure, adds scientist Dr Susanna Søberg.

but it's really the effect on your mind that's the big deal #1464029, #1516507

"While the initial cold-water-shock response briefly increases inflammation, studies suggest stress levels drop significantly around 12 hours later.""While the initial cold-water-shock response briefly increases inflammation, studies suggest stress levels drop significantly around 12 hours later."

• vagus nerve stimulation
• parasympathetic activity
• releasing mood-regulating neurotransmitters (seratonin+dopamine)

Good for women, too (...shocker!):

Despite common misconceptions, cold-water swimming is reportedly as beneficial for women as it is for men, with some evidence suggesting it may help regulate body temperature during perimenopause and alleviate endometriosis symptoms. There could also be added benefits from being outdoors and swimming socially.

A few minutes is enough, up to five can boost alertness.

Don't hold your breath, and don't chicken your way in... just go #1508570, #1507948, #1516054

The haters emergeThe haters emerge

Evidence is still mixed on whether the benefits of cold-water swimming come from the cold water itself or from surrounding factors such as being in nature, overcoming a challenge and social connection. “We know that some people even experience improvements just by being close to water,” says Dr Massey. “There is debate over what the magic ingredient is.”

Plus, whatever benefits there are in aggregate may be swamped by outliers who literally die from cold water: autonomic conflict, cardiac arrhythmias, fatal.

Instead, “get your body in and, once your breathing is under control, that’s when you can put your face in”, advises Dr Harper. Those with high blood pressure, heart conditions or underlying health issues should consult a GP before taking part. Warming up quickly afterwards is also key to reducing risk and avoiding hypothermia, Lawton notes.

...and, as always, the goddamn "experts"

Those with Raynaud’s or other circulatory conditions – as well as pregnant women – should check with their healthcare provider before trying it. The good news is that even minimal exposure can be beneficial. According to Dr Harper, simply dunking your face in a sink of icy water can instantly lower stress levels.

Whatchasay Schtackers??Whatchasay Schtackers??

archive: https://archive.md/meifG