Dr. Laura Purdy, a family medicine physician, has shared with me the many benefits of cold-water immersion. By intentionally exposing yourself to cold water, your body can develop positive responses such as relieving joint pain, reducing inflammation, aiding recovery, decreasing stress, increasing energy, boosting mood, and improving mental clarity.
Initially skeptical about cold plunging due to its perceived discomfort, I decided to give it a try after hearing about its potential advantages. To experience these benefits firsthand, I prepared my bathtub with bags of ice to make the water cold enough.
Dr. Purdy advised that the frequency and length of cold plunges can vary based on individual preferences. For beginners, she recommended gradually building a tolerance before fully immersing yourself in the cold water. Although unsure of how my first experience in an ice bath would turn out, I was excited to see the potential benefits for myself.
