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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Samantha Wood

Are cold showers really worth it? Discover the science behind the brrr …

Illustration of woman's head tilted back in shower with large drops falling on face, with drops containing symbols: a thermometer, a brain, the planet, a strong arm, a temperature gauge

It’s unlikely to be the most enjoyable bathroom experience you’ve ever had but, according to experts, turning down the dial on your shower and washing regularly under cool or cold water can increase energy levels, improve mental health and could even help you shift a few pounds.

“Cold-water therapy has been used for centuries as a way of taking advantage of our body’s ability to adapt to harsher conditions, and it can make us more resilient to stress and illness,” says Rachel Taylor, a neuropsychologist and host of the UnBroken Podcast. “A quick, cold shower a few times a week is a simple and effective way to help reduce inflammation in the body, improve circulation, lower stress levels and improve sleep.”

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