On the eve of Epiphany, Alexey Novikov, a therapist at the general medical practice department of the Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, told how short-term stress from ice water is useful for the body and how to avoid dangerous consequences when ritual of ablution.
According to the expert, reasonable exposure to low temperatures can really have a positive effect And allocated five key points:
- strengthening the immune system – increasing resistance to infections, reducing the frequency of colds;
- improved blood circulation – sharp cold stimulates the circulatory system, activating the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to all organs;
- increased metabolism – low temperatures increase metabolic rate;
- reduction of stress – exposure to cold increases the production of “happiness hormones” (norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin), which reduces anxiety;
- improved brain function – increased blood flow to the brain has a positive effect on cognitive function, memory and concentration.
At the same time, the doctor noted that swimming in ice water is a serious strain on the body, which is not suitable for everyone. Thus, the procedure is categorically not recommended for those who suffer from chronic diseases, especially those of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, young children, as well as untrained people who have never hardened themselves.
“Training is very important! Ideally, I would recommend daily hardening to everyone. The correct preparation algorithm looks like this: start with a regular warm shower, then switch to a contrast douche (alternating warm and cool water). The most important stage is gradualism. Every day, gradually lower the temperature of the cold water, bringing it to a comfortable minimum. If you don’t have time for long preparation, but you really want to go into the ice hole, you can try the express method 5-7 days in advance: start taking a contrast shower and rubbing yourself with a cold towel. But such a rapid introduction to hardening already carries risks for the cardiovascular system, warns the doctor. “Therefore, I recommend everyone not to be a hero for one day, but gradually, without haste, to accustom your body to the cold through gentle and regular hardening. This will benefit you all year round.”
He also emphasized that a mandatory condition for Epiphany bathing is to do it only in specially equipped places where rescuers from the Ministry of Emergency Situations and emergency medical teams are on duty.
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