The health benefits of swimming in cold water are often overshadowed by the magnitude of participating in such, however, they cannot be ignored. Whilst not for the faint-hearted, swimming in cold water provides a panoply of healthy benefits. It can provide relief from pain and inflammation, reduce stress and anxiety, and even improve your cardiovascular health. We will explore 3 unexpected health benefits of swimming in cold water that you may not know about.
1) Boosts Immunity
One of the most important health benefits of swimming in cold water is its ability to boost the immune system. Exposure to cold water helps your body produce more white blood cells, which fight off infections and illnesses. Swimming in cold water also increases the production of proteins called cytokines, which are vital for the body’s natural defense against bacteria and viruses. Additionally, exposure to cold water can activate certain hormones like cortisol, which can help improve the body’s overall immunity. Studies have shown that these combined effects of swimming in cold water can increase the overall strength of the immune system, making it easier to fend off disease and illness.
2) Aids in Weight Loss
Swimming in cold water can be an effective form of exercise to aid in weight loss. Research shows that swimming in cold water can help to reduce body fat, increase metabolism, and boost the body’s energy expenditure. This is because when you swim in cold water, your body needs to expend more energy to keep warm. In addition, swimming in cold water can help to reduce appetite, which can also lead to weight loss. Furthermore, when swimming in cold water, the body is burning calories at a faster rate than other forms of exercise, making it an effective way to burn calories quickly. Ultimately, swimming in cold water can be a great way to achieve a healthy weight and improve overall health.
3) Improves Sleep Quality
Swimming in cold water can have a positive effect on your sleep quality, which can lead to overall better health and wellbeing. When swimming in cold water, your body works hard to stay warm, leading to an increase in heart rate and blood circulation. This physiological response is known as the “dive reflex” and it has been linked to improved sleep quality. Studies have also shown that swimming in cold water increases levels of endorphins, hormones that make you feel relaxed and help to improve sleep. Additionally, the physical activity associated with swimming in cold water can help tire out your body, which can make it easier to fall asleep.
Furthermore, swimming in cold water helps to create a deep sense of relaxation, calming both the mind and body. This can be extremely beneficial for those who are struggling to get restful sleep. Studies have found that regular exposure to cold water can reduce levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), making it easier to relax and drift off into a restful sleep.
Shoutout! This post is dedicated to my gorgeous, flawsome, amazing friend Hayley Gray who open swims in the cold North Sea, England!
“She is water – strong enough to drown you, soft enough to cleanse you and deep enough to save you”.
🥶❄️🌊 I was introduced to cold water swimming by a very wise woman … at first I thought she was mad, but true to her word the inflammation I had suffered in my back disappeared within an hour of my first North Sea Dip
I ve never looked back. I swim every week all through the winter. Have faith in Mother Nature ❤️ I am blessed to have such women in my life …. The author of Flawsome and fifty is one such woman. Always in Awe
Thank you gorgeous! Next time I am in the UK, I am coming with you! Love always. Paula. xxx