Cold water therapy

If I tell you that I am a big fan of taking cold showers and going for cold dips in coolish lakes or the ocean do you have any thoughts about why? What is so good about it?

When I was young, I always complained when the water in the bath tub was too hot. It was a feeling I could not handle very well. In my childhood it ended up with me throwing a tantrum. Nowadays, I need to be in the mood for warm baths. Epsom salt baths are great for aches and pains, but I choose carefully when to take a warm bath.

When I was 20 years old, I moved to Switzerland. I started a seasonal job in the ski fields. On some mornings I walked to work and it was approximately -12 or -15 degrees Celsius. I met people from all over the world. Some had worked for many years in this environment while some were new to it like myself. I was amazed by the great resilience of some people in the given conditions.

I started going to saunas more often. And I enjoyed the benefits of cold showers or baths after the Sauna. I made it a habit after my showers to turn the tap to cold and spend another thirty seconds or so under the cold shower. I seriously believed that with this type of practice I could more easily adapt to the conditions outside and feel less sensitive to the cold climate.

In South Germany where I am born, we are in spa haven.

Baden Baden, near my home town, is the ultimate place to visit thermal baths, saunas and the well known Kneipp Cure. A form of hydrotherapy is on offer in most wellness centres and hotels in the Black Forrest region.

For me, I loved visiting saunas and swimming in the outdoor pools, whilst it was snowing. Then I ran into the snow, yes, wearing twopiece bathers. No harmful effects, it was the most invigorating feeling, and I loved the way the skin felt afterward. I felt my blood pumping through the veins, and the mood level went up. I felt joyful.

Here in Australia, I still have my cold showers in the morning.

I feel incomplete if I don’t. I have been doing this for over 25 years.

For some time, I have also been taking cold dips in the bay. As I am based in a Melbourne beachside suburb, I try to go to the water all year round.

It is well known that cold water therapy is great for boosting the immunity system. It helps me to be more resilient in the cooler months of the year. It increases the blood circulation. While I am in the water alone and peaceful, at one with nature and light, I feel that I am clearing negative energy.

When stepping out of the water I feel invigorated and happy.

Cold water therapies have been well documented throughout human history.

I have read articles about the long existing springs and thermal baths in Switzerland, Germany and Austria as well as the way that the culture of the Romans, the Turks and many other cultures included bathing and spa practices. While there may be debate about the strength of scientific evidence to support some claims made for cold water therapies, I have no doubt for myself that going for a cold shower seems to help me to feel stronger and happier.

If you are interested in trying out cold water therapy, you should discuss it with a health professional first, to customise your program for your needs.

Finally, visit Wim Hof, known as the Iceman. He is a Dutch extreme athlete noted for his ability to withstand freezing temperatures.

• Wim Hof@Iceman-Hof Twitter

Further info: body genius, cold water therapy