Finding Joy in the Chill: How Cold Plunging Could Be Your Brain’s Boost And Help With Addiction
Ever heard of cold plunging? It’s not just about braving icy waters; it turns out there’s a cool connection between taking the plunge and our brain’s happiness chemicals. Meet Andrew Huberman, a brain expert from Stanford University, who suggests that dunking yourself in cold water might give your brain a boost of dopamine – that feel-good neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward.
So, here’s the lowdown: When you take the plunge into cold water, your body kicks into gear, activating something called the sympathetic nervous system. No need for jargon; think of it as your body’s way of preparing for a quick getaway from danger. In this case, the “danger” is the cold water, and your body reacts by releasing dopamine in the brain.
Now, why does this matter? Well, for folks dealing with addiction, this natural dopamine hit could be a game-changer. Addiction messes with the balance of chemicals in your brain, making you crave substances for that feel-good vibe. Cold plunging, by triggering the release of dopamine, might just help balance things out a bit.
Think of it as a reset button for your brain. The cold water doesn’t just wake you up – it gives your brain a natural dose of pleasure, potentially countering the imbalances caused by addiction. Andrew Huberman believes that finding joy in activities like cold plunging, unrelated to substances, could help people slowly rely less on addictive stuff.
But, a word of caution: Cold plunging is like any wellness trick – it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Before you dive in, it’s wise to chat with healthcare pros, especially if you’re on a recovery journey. Cold plunging might just be the chill addition you need to your routine, but it’s crucial to make sure it fits your unique situation.
So, next time you’re contemplating a dip in cold water, think of it as more than just a shock to your system. It could be a step toward rewiring your brain, finding joy in the cold, and breaking free from the chains of addiction. It might sound a bit out there, but sometimes, the coolest solutions come from the most unexpected places.
Shawn Johnson
Fitness/Carnivore Nutrition Coach
BeCarnivorous.com
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