05/12/2025
Struggle with cold water exposure but want the benefits
Here is how to improve your tolerance to cold water in a smart way:
1. Use progressive overload
Start where you are. Shorter time. Warmer water. Then slowly increase time or decrease temperature. Small, repeatable wins beat heroics.
2. It does not always need to be an ice bath
Cold showers count. Finish your normal shower with 30–60 seconds cold. Turn the dial a bit colder each week.
3. Put your hands in last
Keep hands and fingers out at the start. They have a high density of cold receptors and can spike your stress response. Once you settle your breathing, then put them in.
4. Do not chase numbness
Numb does not mean “better.” You want controlled discomfort, steady breathing, and clear thinking. If you lose feeling or start shivering hard, get out and warm up.
5. Listen to your body
If your breathing feels wild, your chest feels tight, or you feel dizzy, stop. Cold exposure should train your stress response, not push you into panic.
6. Book in to Thermal this weekend
You can use our structured cold plunge set up, plus sauna and red light, to build tolerance safely with proper guidance.