Have you heard about a contrast shower and how it could give you that much-needed boost in the morning? We bet you are interested to learn more. After all, who doesn’t want to start the day rejuvenated and alert? This article will tell you what there is to know about the concept.
What is a Contrast Shower?
When we talk about contrast shower, it’s when you switch between hot and cold water multiple times. It is also referred to as contrast hydrotherapy. Typically, you need to complete three to four cycles of hot and cold water. And with each cycle, you have to decrease the temperature of cold water, and increase the temperature of hot water. The objective is to ensure that the blood vessel will continue to react.
You can start with a hot temperature, and choose the hottest one that you can tolerate. Enjoy it for two to three minutes, and then switch to the coldest water temperature you could bear. Repeat this three to four times and always end using cold water.
Contrast Shower Benefits
This method is becoming popular among many people as there are a number of health benefits. Further studies have to be conducted; however, there are several who could claim its advantages.
It Could Boost One’s Energy
This one is pretty obvious, especially if you take a cold shower. However, if you combine both hot and cold showers, this could improve your overall blood circulation. And because of that, you will be more alert and ready to face a long day.
It Improves Your Immune System
According to studies, contrast or cold showers, in particular, can prevent you from regularly getting sick. This could be possible because cold temperatures make us shiver, and it triggers our body’s fight-or-flight response.
It Might Reduce Muscle Soreness
Athletes are known to take contrast showers. In fact, ice baths are fairly common. While there are studies claiming that it could not speed up your recovery, many athletes claim otherwise. It seems that they perceive it’s easier to recover with an ice bath. In that sense, there is a psychological benefit from taking contrast showers.
It Helps with Circulation
As we’ve mentioned, it is also good for circulation. You see, when you shower using both hot and cold water, this can cause your heart to send blood rushing to your organs. And if you regularly do this, your circulatory system will be more efficient and will greatly improve. The reason for this is your body’s natural response to protect your vital organs. When there is a quick change in temperature, the blood will circulate faster.
When you have better circulation, you are also able to heal faster because the nutrients are properly transported.
It Could Aid in Weight Loss
There’s no strong evidence to back this up. However, some believe that contrast showers can help in weight loss. Let us explain the science behind it.
Our bodies have brown fat and white fat. White fat refers to what we form when we consume excessive calories. Brown fat, on the other hand, is what generates fuel or heat by burning the white fat.
According to theories, when you expose your body to cold water, the brown fat will start burning white fat. And this essentially helps in losing weight.
If you want to know more about contrast showers, here is a quick video for you.
Best Shower Products
We want you to enjoy every shower experience. And that is why we looked for the best products as you take a contrast shower whether in the morning or at night time.
Cleverfy Aromatherapy Shower Steamers
Aromatherapy works! And you can have it while you are taking a shower as long as you are using these products. It uses pure essential oils, and we all know these are jam-packed with health benefits. You get to have six melts when you buy this package. There is lavender, menthol, vanilla, watermelon, grapefruit, and peppermint.
Do not apply this to your skin. Also, if you have other medical conditions, or pregnant, get approval first from your doctor before you use these shower steamers.
M3 Naturals Himalayan Salt Body Scrub Infused with Collagen and Stem Cell
We need to exfoliate our bodies once in a while. And if you want an amazing product, this has got to be included in your list. This is rich in Himalayan salt with lychee oil and can help you restore your natural skin. It’s also one of the best products if you wish to reduce the appearance of your blemishes. Remember, your skin needs to be detoxified.
Brickell Men’s Invigorating Mint Body Wash for Men
Here’s a great product you could give to your husband. Apart from being invigorating, it deep cleans the skin of oil. It’s ideal for men of all ages, and could moisturize the skin. This contains aloe vera, vitamin E, jojoba oil, glycerin, peppermint, and tea tree oil.
Some might think that the product is a bit pricey. However, they all believe in one thing – it’s worth it.
Maui Moisture Conditioner
If you have curly hair, we’ve found a product for you. This will make your locks moisturized and healthy. If you have wavy or tight curls, we bet this will do you good. And with a blend of aloe vera, you are sure to get only the best. This product is vegan, free from parabens, silicones, and mineral oil. Since this conditioner is lightweight, you can use it every day.
MainBasics Bath Shower Loofah Sponge
Your loofah sponge might need to be replaced. If yes, get this brand that offers a set of 3. It’s the perfect size and can work well with any body wash and soaps. At an affordable price, you get to have quality loofah, which can gently exfoliate your skin. Whether you are going to use it, or you plan to give it to your kids, it should deliver well.
Conclusion
Taking a shower is apparently hygienic. But just a bit of tweak on your water temperature, and it could boost your overall health. Try the tips we’ve provided above and see the changes it could bring.
