As the saying goes, "cover up in spring and expose in autumn," "food is better than medicine, exercise is better than food." Cold water bathing is a good exercise method in the autumn. So what are the benefits of cold water bathing for the body?
Improved cardiovascular function
Autumn is a time of clear skies and pleasant temperatures, with the air temperature, water temperature, and body temperature being relatively close. Cold water has a relatively small impact on the human body. Starting cold water bathing at this time helps improve the body's ability to adapt to environmental changes and enhances the function of the cardiovascular system, making it easier for people to adapt to future climate changes.
Enhanced immune system
When the body is exposed to cold water stimulation, the muscles tense and contract, quickly responding to resist the cold and enhancing the body's ability to adapt to temperature changes. This strengthens the immune system and helps prevent respiratory infections such as colds, increasing resistance to diseases. Starting cold water bathing in autumn and continuing it throughout the winter is greatly beneficial for the body's ability to adapt to the cold and prevent colds.
Enhanced digestive function
Cold water bathing also helps enhance digestive function. It has a certain auxiliary therapeutic effect on conditions such as gastric ptosis, chronic gastritis, and constipation.
Healthy and beautiful skin
Cold water stimulates the surface of the skin, accelerating blood circulation in the body, which strengthens the supply of nutrients to the skin and subcutaneous tissues. It promotes sebum secretion, giving the skin a healthy, radiant, and elastic appearance, and reducing the likelihood of skin diseases.
Precautions for cold water bathing
Warm-up exercises
To adapt to the temperature of cold water and avoid strong stimulation to the skin, you can perform warm-up exercises before each bathing session. Rub the skin with your hands for a few minutes until it feels warm and flushed, and then proceed with the cold water bath.
Pay attention to the order of bathing
When bathing, do not pour water from head to toe immediately. Instead, start by pouring cold water on the limbs for a few minutes, then move on to the chest and back. This gradual process allows the body to gradually adapt. Finally, rinse the entire body with cold water, and rub the body while rinsing.
Avoid bathing for too long
The recommended time for cold water bathing is generally 10-15 minutes, depending on the body's ability to adapt. After bathing, dry off quickly with a towel, put on loose-fitting clothes, and use your hands to massage the joints to prevent the onset of arthritis.
