The pleasures of winter include tasting hot beverages in front of the television, comforting meals with friends or family and… hot showers when you get out of bed or after a busy day at work. It is indeed the ultimate moment of relaxation where you find yourself alone with your thoughts and which allows you to relax. To take full advantage of its benefits, however, you should (be careful, it might make your teeth cringe) end the session with a cold water rinse, according to a former US Navy soldier named Clint Emerson. The man, who notably wrote a book on how to "sow enemies", "escape when you are captive" or even "survive a dangerous situation" (quite a program!), evokes the interest in force him to finish his shower with cold water, a widespread practice in the army. Here are the main reasons:
Undeniably... If after a good jet of cold water on your face and body you are still asleep, it is because you have an extraordinary gift. “Cold water will definitely bring you out, and it will keep you awake “, specifies the ex-professional. A good way to start the day with eyes wide open, then!
… After physical exertion, for example. “It’s a habit professional athletes have after training, because it speeds up the recovery process. [Cold water] has vasoconstrictor effects [acts to narrow blood vessels, editor's note] all over the body, which helps to drive out lactic acid [responsible for cramps, editor's note] in order to feel fit for the next day and a new workout “, continues the American.
“Cold water is real therapy. Although it may feel like torture, it keeps you in good shape, protects the joints and reduces inflammation. It invigorates and increases the ability to exercise again, while limiting the risk of injury concludes Clint Emerson.
This should convince even the most reluctant among us... If this is not the case, we advise you to take other benefits of the practice. Come on, let's get started as soon as possible and plan ahead for the hot herbal tea when you leave the bathroom. Courage!
