Hydrotherapy and Cold Showers
Hello summer. With the 90 degree days here in Minnesota lately I feel drawn to come back to a practice that was significant to me in my mid-twenties.
Hydrotherapy.
A pic from one of my kayaking trips to the Apostle Islands of Lake Superior. Definitely had some cold swims here!
This cold water immersion is an energizing practice wakes up the body and mind in a way that no cup of coffee can. I also find it quite cooling, which is rather refreshing these days.
Hydrotherapy practices have likely been around in some form since antiquity and have been experienced by many across the world in diverse ways. I was first exposed to hydrotherapy in an herbalist apprenticeship with ND Sara Hart back in 2012 and again through my second yoga teacher training. In my yoga teacher training we learned that cold showers are both a spiritual and self care practice for healing and vitality. I also regularly practice this out backpacking or kayaking.
In India, the practice of cold showers is known as Ishnaan the Sanskrit word which translates to “sun.” This makes perfect sense, considering that cold showers are a total uplift in energy. According to many, they’re detoxifying and strengthen the immune system. I notice when I take a cold shower in the morning it’s like having a cup of coffee without the obnoxious 3pm caffeine crash. The cool water also tightens the skin and increases circulation.
How to take a cold shower
1) Cold showers are best in the morning. They are energizing and stimulating to the whole system. I like to take a cold shower right away, even before eating. Apply a thin layer of olive oil or your favorite kind of oil to lightly coat the surface of the skin.
2) Turn the water on cold, all the way on cold. I like to ease into it by starting with the feet and legs, then rinsing each part of the body with cold water. Traditionally the scalp, forehead, and thighs are avoided.
3) Let out a warrior cry! Victory! (optional)
4) Towel off. I usually use a worn-out towel for this part. Some of the oil will stay on the towel even if you wash it. I designate a towel for my practice.
5) Congratulate yourself!!! Start your day feeling energized and refreshed. You just took a cold shower, you can do anything now :-)
I have heard from my yoga teachers that this “resets” the nervous system and as a result is a way to create new habits and thought patterns. I’ve experienced this to be true, especially when practiced consistently nearly every day for months at a time. In addition, practiced with can and intention I believe hydrotherapy can be supportive for healing PTSD and trauma, because of this rewiring affect and the way it moves stagnation and uplifts energy.
As with anything I share on this website, do further research, consult with physicians, use common sense, and see if hydrotherapy practices are right for you at this time.