Rabat - Multiple studies on the link between maintaining a cold shower routine and healthy lifestyle have established a positive correlation between a routine of cold showers and boosted immune system, increased productivity, and better mood.

The Surprising Benefits of Cold Showers

Rabat – Multiple studies on the link between maintaining a cold shower routine and healthy lifestyle have established a positive correlation between a routine of cold showers and boosted immune system, increased productivity, and better mood.

In a study published in 2016, a team of researchers concluded that maintaining a cold shower routine significantly reduces sickness-induced absenteeism from work.

Relying on self-reported data, the researchers concluded that participants who opted for cold showers were 29% less likely to skip work over sick leaves.

Of the 4229 people who participated in the study, 91% reported that they would maintain the routine they started as part of the experiment, further indicating the efficiency of adopting a cold-shower routine.

While focusing on absenteeism as a primary indicator of the effect of cold showers, the study also tracked self-reported work productivity, anxiety, and potential side effects.

Results from the study prompted researchers to conclude that a cold shower routine triggers the body’s immune system, leading participants to suffer less severe symptoms when sick.

While psychologists will not be recommending cold showers as a substitute for depression meds anytime soon, one study strongly suggests that cold showers can potentially boost mood.

Published in 2008, the study investigates the effect of exposure to cold water on depression symptoms. Cold showers seem to activate a specific class of nerve endings, resulting in an antidepressant effect, it concluded.

With no apparent negative side effects, the benefits of cold showers potentially include a higher alertness level as cold showers seem to activate the sympathetic nervous system, the mechanism responsible for the fight-or-flight instinct.

Cold showers also boost metabolism, as the body works harder to maintain body temperature. But given the fact that the average person’s cold shower only lasts from five to 10 minutes, it’s unlikely that cold showers can help with substantial weight loss.