The first reaction our body has to a cold shower would probably be shock, but that surprisingly builds up warmth with our quickened breathing.

Our heart rate will also increase alongside this, releasing a rush of blood through our system. This helps to awaken our senses, hence giving a boost of energy for the rest of the day.

Our bodies contain two types of fat tissue – white fat and brown fat. White fat occurs when we consume more calories than we actually need and remains in our body when we don’t burn them for energy.

Brown fat, is known as the good fat that keeps our bodies warm by generating heat.

A study done in 2009 by The New England Journal Of Medicine found that cold temperatures can activate and promote brown fat activity, which helps to burn white fat at the same time.

As calming as hot water can be to our bodies, it tends to dry out our skin.

On the other hand, cold water tightens our cuticles and pores as it constricts blood flow, that can prevent them from getting clogged. This is the same whether for the pores in your scalp or skin.

Cold water improves blood circulation, causing arteries to pump blood more efficiently, benefiting our heart health.

This can lower blood pressure and help our immune system in the long run.

Just like how professional athletes take ice baths after intense training to soothe muscle soreness, a study was done by The Cochrane Library, and found that cold water baths were effective in relieving sore muscles after exercises, as it reduces inflammation where the muscles were strained.

As intense and horrifying cold showers might seem, they have been known to relieve depression symptoms due to a good amount of electrical impulses caused from the peripheral nerve endings to the brain.

This instantly boosts one’s mood, especially perfect for the mornings!

Text: Janice Sim/Shape